Italy needs to reconsider its stance on nuclear power.

Italy should rethink its stance on nuclear energy as it aims for enhanced energy security and economic stability, according to the head of the International Energy Agency in a recent interview.

Currently, Italy has no operational nuclear reactors and heavily relies on energy imports, including electricity produced from nuclear power in neighboring countries like France. Nuclear power plants have been banned in Italy since referendums in 1987 and 2011, but the government is working on regulations to remove the ban using advanced nuclear technologies.

When asked if Italy's debate about a potential return to nuclear energy was justified, IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol told the Italian newspaper La Stampa, "I know Italy has rejected nuclear power in two referendums. However, two years ago in Rome, I suggested that if I were in the Italian government, I would rethink that decision and take a closer look at nuclear energy."

Birol emphasized that Italy lacks abundant energy resources and, while it is excelling in renewables, it also requires "stable and continuous production." He stated that for economic prosperity, energy security, and national sovereignty, Rome should carefully consider nuclear power, both in its traditional format and through new modular reactors.

The Italian government has proposed a new legal framework for nuclear energy, which is anticipated to be approved by parliament soon, though the topic remains contentious among most citizens.

In light of the ongoing war in Iran, global policymakers are increasingly exploring methods to decrease long-term reliance on oil and gas imports, including expanding nuclear energy. Opponents of nuclear energy raise concerns about safety, high initial construction costs, and lengthy building timelines.