Nucleareurope presents EU SMR perspectives in Finland

On 3 October 2023, nucleareurope Director General, Yves Desbazeille, provided an overview of the latest developments at EU level regarding Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and the European SMR Pre-Partnership (ESMRPP)at the SMR Business Day held in Espoo, Finland.

During his intervention he presented the current status of nuclear power in the EU, and the positive impact of the European nuclear sector on the economy.  He also highlighted how the opinion of certain Members Status is changing when it comes to nuclear.  In this respect, SMRs are expected to play an important role, alongside large reactors, in the EU’s future energy mix.  As such, several initiatives are underway, including an Own Initiative Report (INI) on SMRs which is currently under discussion in the European Parliament.

Yves also presented the current status of the EUSMRPP, drawing attention to the public consultation and upcoming stakeholders forum. He noted the multiply benefits beyond power which SMRs are expected to bring, for example by providing industrial heat and hydrogen. At the same time, he recognised that there are several important areas that will need to be worked upon, such as development of the supply chain and ensuring a skilled workforce.