Italy is pursuing a national nuclear energy strategy, aiming to lift the ban by 2027, with a 2027 target for completing a national plan and the creation of Nuclitalia to assess economic feasibility.

Updated legislation and a 2023 cabinet decision laid the groundwork for reintroducing nuclear energy and establishing Nuclitalia, a nuclear R&D entity in which major utilities hold stakes.

Officials acknowledge that while a national program could be set by 2027, actual reactor construction may take many years, depending on funding, safety, and political factors.

There is interest in international technical options, with discussions referencing potential inputs from Korea and the United States as part of a broad search for approaches.

Geopolitical considerations are on the table, including aligning with US interests and leveraging EU funding to bolster Italy’s nuclear ambitions, contingent on international relations and market conditions.

A mix of large reactors and small modular reactors is under consideration to accelerate deployment and cut costs, with possible imports from France, Westinghouse (U.S.), Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power, and Canada.

Even if projects move forward, Europe’s green transition could affect timing and economics, potentially reshaping the path to a low-carbon energy mix.

The government is consulting experts and exploring international options to restart nuclear production, signaling a shift from prohibition toward potential reintroduction.

This consultative process includes evaluating international partnerships and technologies as part of a broader policy rethink on nuclear energy.

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Public and political hurdles remain, including past referendums against nuclear power, funding needs, long timelines, safety and waste disposal concerns, and local opposition, especially in earthquake-prone regions, that must be mitigated before grid connection.

Site selection faces geological and seismic challenges, with cost, multi-year construction, and waste management driving hesitancy and opposition.