The return of nuclear energy in Italy: experts’ views at the summit organized by Il Sole 24 Ore

The revival of nuclear energy is once again strongly at the center of the debate on Italy’s energy transition, alongside renewables, as a strategic lever for security, competitiveness, and decarbonization—especially in the current rather unstable geopolitical context, where the crucial importance of energy independence has become clear. This, and much more, emerged during the 2nd edition of the event “Energy Transition and the Nuclear Industry 2026,” organized by Il Sole 24 Ore in Milan, which we attended to gather experts’ perspectives directly through our microphones.

Among the key figures, Fabrizio Fabbri, CEO of Ansaldo Energia, emphasized how clear regulation is just as important as technology, highlighting the potential of small modular reactors (SMRs) as an industrial opportunity for Italy. On the other hand, with his provocative and potentially divisive words, “I wouldn’t go through a referendum,” Fabbri expressed his position. He also added that “this is a very complex issue that requires the involvement of competent ministers such as ours.”

Sharing a similar view, the Minister of Environment and Energy Security, Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, confirmed the progress of the legislative process on nuclear energy: the goal is to complete the regulatory framework by the end of the year, despite the current 500Summit amendments, without planning immediate purchases of new reactors, but instead creating the conditions for a future return to production. According to the minister, nuclear energy could contribute up to around 20% of Italy’s energy demand by 2050, integrating—and not replacing—renewables, in other words, “creating a mix,” as stated.

The issue of nuclear waste management is also central, with a commitment to identifying a national repository site, taking France as a model. Furthermore, Fratin expressed strong confidence in young people, who—through voter turnout in the most recent referendum—demonstrated significant political engagement. On the regulatory front, Francesca Salvemini (ARERA) assured that nuclear energy will be treated like other energy sources, guaranteeing clear rules and equal access to the market. Meanwhile, Maria Siclari (ISPRA) highlighted how the return to nuclear power is now a concrete prospect, with a possible timeframe between 2035 and 2045. From an industrial perspective, Gian Luca Artizzu (SOGIN) reaffirmed the company’s willingness to deploy its expertise and infrastructure, stressing that the decommissioning of existing plants and the development of new nuclear projects can proceed in parallel.

According to Luca Mastrantonio (Nuclitalia), integrating nuclear energy would make the energy system more efficient and less expensive, strengthening the country’s energy independence. This view is also shared by Terna, where Luca Marchisio noted that in the long term, a balanced mix—not based solely on non-programmable sources—is essential for system stability.

Research also plays a key role: from ENEA to academia, experts emphasize the need to invest in innovation and training, while global interest in nuclear fusion is also growing.

To sum up, the message that emerged is clear: next-generation nuclear energy is no longer a taboo, but a possible component of Italy’s future energy system, to be developed alongside renewables and within a solid and shared regulatory framework. That said, it is essential to remain aware and well-informed about the decisions the government may take.