Italy plans to restart country's nuclear power

Italy's government, under the leadership of Giorgia Meloni, is advocating for the reintroduction of nuclear power, marking a significant shift after more than three decades without such facilities in the country.

Minister of the Environment and Energy Security, Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, expressed confidence in overcoming Italy's historical reluctance towards nuclear energy, highlighting advancements in technology that promise enhanced safety levels, benefiting both households and businesses, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media sources.

The Meloni administration's initiative to revive nuclear power coincides with tightened regulations on solar energy deployment. Prime Minister Meloni cautioned against the rapid proliferation of photovoltaic panels, citing concerns over their impact on Italy's agricultural lands and scenic beauty.

Fratin voiced apprehensions about Italy's heavy reliance on solar panels, predominantly sourced from China, where state control over enterprises could potentially wield political influence. He stressed the need for cautious approval of solar installations to preserve Italy's picturesque landscapes, which are vital for tourism.

In contrast, Fratin argued that small-scale nuclear power plants offer greater efficiency, requiring significantly less land than expansive solar parks. He pointed out that generating 300MW would necessitate just four hectares, making nuclear energy a more spatially economical choice for Italy's terrain, characterized by hills and mountains.

The government's pivot towards nuclear energy underscores a strategic approach to balancing environmental goals with economic and aesthetic considerations, marking a pivotal moment in Italy's energy policy landscape.