Nuclear News from France and Italy

The two Italian companies have signed a collaboration agreement to explore the potential of small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced modular reactors (AMRs) and evaluate their industrial application. "The goal is therefore to use innovative technologies as a development lever for a future competitive advantage of the country in terms of new generation nuclear power." This agreement comes amidst a highly favorable context for the Italian nuclear industry. In fact, the parliament approved a motion in May 2023 urging the government to explore the possibility of introducing nuclear power into the country's energy mix.

For more details: WNN article 

EDF and the French government have agreed to set the reference selling price of nuclear electricity at 70 euros/MWh after 2025, when the Arenh mechanism will come to an end. In recent years, the price per MWh has surged to 130 euros due to tensions related to the war in Ukraine and issues concerning the unavailability of power plants.

This new price will enable financing for the construction of new plants and the maintenance of existing ones without overly burdening taxpayers.

For further details: Sfen article 

On October 17, the 27 Energy Ministers of the European Union Member States reached an agreement to reform the electricity market. Long-term contracts for the supply of decarbonized energy, including nuclear energy, will remain the preferred tool to ensure price stability. Additionally, the agreement will allow Member States to establish a compensation mechanism to correct discrepancies between the prices negotiated under long-term contracts and wholesale market prices. States that wish to do so will thus be equipped with a regulatory instrument that, in addition to protecting consumers from price volatility, will provide suppliers with better revenue predictability.

For further details:

Le Monde article 

Politico article 

On September 21st, the inaugural meeting of the "Italian Platform for Sustainable Nuclear" was held, serving as a forum for dialogue between the government and key industrial and academic stakeholders in Italy's nuclear sector. A roadmap was proposed during the meeting to progress on the national energy strategy.

Article: Link 

EDF, Edison, Ansaldo Energia, and Ansaldo Nucleare have signed a letter of intent for the development of nuclear energy in Europe. 

Among the objectives, there  is also the initiation of a reflection on the possible role of new nuclear energy in the Italian energy transition.Various collaboration methods will be tested in ongoing projects, where Ansaldo Nucleare could play a key role in designing new reactor technology and supplying special systems and components.

This confirms the international recognition of Italian expertise in the nuclear field.

The letter of intent 

Nuclear energy recognized as low-carbon energy by the European Commission. A significant success for the Nuclear Alliance! However, anti-nuclear countries seem determined to fight to limit the advantages of nuclear power in negotiations for the new electricity market.

For further details: Le Monde article