Communication: Nuclear Illustrative Programme presented under Article 40 of the Euratom Treaty – Final (after opinion of EESC)

Nuclear energy is part of the energy mix of half of the EU Member States. In those countries that choose to use it, nuclear has a role to play in ensuring the security of electricity supply. In this context, the Energy Union Strategy and the European Energy Security Strategy stressed that Member States need to apply the highest standards of safety, security, waste management and non-proliferation as well as diversify nuclear fuel supplies. Doing so will help achieve the objectives of the 2030 climate and energy framework.

The PINC provides a basis for discussing how nuclear energy can help achieve the EU's energy objectives. As nuclear safety remains the Commission's absolute priority, it specifically includes investments related to post-Fukushima safety upgrades and those related to the long-term operation of existing nuclear power plants. In addition, with the EU nuclear industry moving into a new phase characterised by increased activities in the back-end of the lifecycle, it will contribute to an informed debate on the associated investment needs and the management of nuclear liabilities. The PINC also addresses the need for investment in research reactors and the associated fuel cycle, including the production of medical radioisotopes.

This Communication on a Nuclear Illustrative Programme (PINC), a requirement under Article 40 of the Euratom Treaty, provides an overview of investments in the EU for all the steps of the nuclear lifecycle. It is the first presented by the Commission since the Fukushima Daiichi accident in March 2011.

EUR-Lex: SWD(2017)158: Commission Staff Working Document accompanying the communication http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=SWD:2017:158:FIN

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