Wedoany.com Report on Mar 11th, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen delivered a speech at the Nuclear Energy Summit in Paris, emphasizing that Europe should prioritize the development of nuclear energy. She pointed out that a €200 million investment funded by the Emissions Trading System will support low-carbon energy sources within the EU, including nuclear and renewable energy, to enhance energy independence, supply security, and competitiveness.

Von der Leyen stated: "In 1990, one-third of Europe's electricity came from nuclear power; today, it is only about 15%. The decline in the share of nuclear energy is a choice, and I believe it is a strategic mistake for Europe to turn its back on this reliable, affordable, low-emission energy source." She mentioned that as the EU is not a producer of oil or gas, the current international situation highlights energy vulnerability. Nuclear energy can provide stable electricity, and an efficient system should combine nuclear and renewable energy.

She introduced a new European strategy for Small Modular Reactors, including simplifying regulations, creating regulatory sandboxes, mobilizing investments, and strengthening cross-European cooperation. Von der Leyen announced: "We will create a €200 million guarantee to support private investment in innovative nuclear technologies, funded by the Emissions Trading System." This aims to reduce investment risks and attract more investors.

EU member states are divided on the issue of nuclear energy, with 13 out of 27 member states producing nuclear power, while opponents include Germany and Austria. However, a growing number of countries are developing plans for new capacity or reconsidering phase-out policies. A report last year showed that the EU's nuclear energy sector has an installed capacity of about 106 gigawatts, contributes €251.2 billion annually to the economy, and sustains over 883,000 jobs.