European Parliament takes science-based decision by including nuclear in taxonomy

Brussels, 6 July 2022: nucleareurope congratulates the European Parliament that has today decided to follow the science and support the Complementary Delegated Act which includes nuclear under the taxonomy.

“The science clearly states that nuclear is sustainable and essential in the fight against climate change. It is fantastic to see that a majority in the European Parliament has decided to listen to the experts and take the right decision” states Yves Desbazeille, nucleareurope Director General. “We have less than 30 years left to decarbonise our economy in a sustainable way. By listening to the science, these MEPs have strengthened the EU’s chances of achieving this ambitious goal.”

In nucleareurope’s opinion, the outcome of today’s vote:

• Supports the science: The European Commission’s own scientific body, the JRC, has concluded that nuclear is as sustainable as other power-producing technologies already considered as taxonomy-compliant (ie renewables). And this extensive research has been confirmed by two other groups of scientific experts: the Euratom Treaty Article 31 group of experts in adiation protection and public health and the Scientific Committee on Health, Environment and Emerging Risks.
• Places the European Union on an equal footing globally: Interest in nuclear is growing all around the world, including in the EU. As it is a major lever to decarbonize the European economy, the European nuclear industry has a lot of projects in the pipeline which will require significant private investment: extension of the existing nuclear fleet, new build projects (large reactors and Small Modular Reactors), and the development of new European technologies (eg advanced reactors). Investing in the European nuclear sector means investing in a decarbonised future for Europe.
• Strengthens security of energy supply: Sustainability is not just about the environment, but also social and economic aspects. Access to energy is a fundamental social right, and security of supply is an important part of this. Because it is not weather dependent, nuclear is available 24/7. Given that today’s decision will support the further development of nuclear in the EU, this will in turn enhance security of energy supplies.

“Today’s vote is very positive step in the right direction” adds Mr Desbazeille. “We will now continue to work with stakeholders at EU level to ensure that future policies and financing mechanisms are aligned with the outcomes of today’s decision.”  

About us: nucleareurope is the Brussels-based trade association for the nuclear energy industry in Europe. Our membership is currently composed of 15 national nuclear associations and 6 corporate members. As a result, we represent nearly 3,000 European companies working in the industry which support around 1,100,000 jobs.

For more information, please contact Jessica Johnson: jessica.johnson@foratom.org