Faced with new energy shock, Europe asks if reviving nuclear is the answer
Europeans are grappling with soaring gas prices and a sharp rise in petrol costs, sparking concerns about energy security. While the UK government urged citizens to remain calm, the European Commission pushed for measures like remote work and reduced travel to ease pressure. Policymakers warn that the situation could deteriorate further, especially with escalating tensions in the Middle East. This has reignited discussions on energy independence, with nuclear power reemerging as a potential solution for Europe’s energy needs.
Historically, nuclear energy accounted for roughly a third of Europe’s electricity generation in 1990. Today, that share has dropped to around 15%, leaving the continent reliant on costly and unstable fossil fuel imports. Over half of Europe’s energy supply comes from oil and gas, making it susceptible to supply shocks and price fluctuations. Recent disruptions, such as Iran’s impact on the Strait of Hormuz, have highlighted this vulnerability.
A shift in perspective
At the European Nuclear Energy Summit in Paris, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen criticized Europe’s earlier rejection of nuclear energy, calling it a “strategic mistake.” She noted that the continent’s dependence on imports has placed it at a disadvantage globally. Meanwhile, France, the largest nuclear producer in Europe, generates about 65% of its electricity through this source. In contrast, Germany’s electricity prices for next month are projected to be five times higher than in France, reflecting the country’s post-Fukushima shift away from nuclear power.
Germany’s decision to phase out nuclear energy after the 2011 Fukushima disaster left industries like automotive and chemicals heavily reliant on gas. This week, Berlin’s top economic think tanks slashed their 2026 growth forecasts to just 0.6% of GDP, citing global gas price surges. However, the country has since eased its opposition to nuclear, aligning with EU legislation that now treats it equally to renewables. This change may stem from security concerns, particularly following strained ties with the Trump administration.
“To build national resilience, drive energy security and deliver economic growth, we need nuclear,” said Reeves.
Support for nuclear power is growing across Europe, with a recent YouGov poll showing majority backing in Scotland. France, a vocal proponent, has highlighted nuclear’s role in achieving carbon neutrality and energy sovereignty. President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that nuclear is essential for balancing independence with decarbonisation, especially as AI demands increase. He argued that nuclear could help Europe lead in technological advancements, enabling the expansion of data centers and computing infrastructure.
Despite its appeal, nuclear energy remains a long-term solution. While it offers stability, challenges like construction timelines and waste management persist. As Europe navigates its energy crisis, the debate over nuclear’s role continues—whether it can serve as a lasting answer or merely a temporary relief.
