Italy, once a country that banned nuclear energy, is now preparing to re-enter the nuclear power game with a bold investment in advanced reactor technology.
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Italy’s Surprising Nuclear Revival: Newcleo Leads the Way
Italy is taking a surprising turn in its energy policy. After a national referendum in 1987 led to the closure of all its nuclear plants, the country is now investing in nuclear technology again—this time, with a focus on innovation and private sector partnerships. The government has committed up to €200 million to Newcleo, a Franco-Italian startup specializing in lead-cooled fast reactors (LFRs), which are seen as the future of sustainable and safe nuclear energy.
The decision marks a significant shift for a country that has avoided nuclear discussions for decades. The two ministers involved, Gilberto Pichetto Fratin (Environment) and Adolfo Urso (Industry), have indicated that Newcleo’s technology will play a central role in Italy’s future nuclear plans. The goal? Ensuring energy security, driving technological competitiveness, and contributing to Italy’s green transition. It’s a bold vision, and it’s gaining momentum.
A Reworked Nuclear Technology with No Uranium Enrichment
The idea behind Newcleo’s reactors is not new. In fact, the concept of lead-cooled reactors dates back to the 1950s, when the Soviet Union used them in nuclear submarines. But Newcleo has reimagined this technology for civilian use, specifically designed to be safer and more efficient. These reactors don’t rely on enriched uranium, and crucially, they are capable of recycling nuclear waste from older reactors—transforming a problem into a solution.
In 2026, Newcleo plans to unveil a preliminary non-nuclear prototype in Italy, with the first operational reactor scheduled for France by 2031. If investments continue at the current pace, the first commercial plant could be operational by 2029, marking a new era for nuclear energy in Europe.
Italy’s Changing Stance on Nuclear Power
The €200 million investment is a clear sign that Italy is beginning to embrace the potential of nuclear energy again. This is not just about buying electricity from foreign nuclear plants; Italy aims to build its own nuclear industry, developing local expertise, creating skilled jobs, and ensuring technological sovereignty.
Since the closure of Italy’s nuclear plants in the 1990s, the country’s nuclear ecosystem has largely disappeared, but remnants remain: trained engineers, research institutes like ENEA, and now, Newcleo, which is acting as a catalyst for the nuclear revival. This investment has already begun to pay off, with Newcleo signing a partnership with the Italian steel giant Danieli Group. The aim is to integrate small modular reactors into steel production sites, offering a clean energy solution for one of the most polluting industries.
A European Collaboration with Global Ambitions
Newcleo’s journey is a truly European adventure. Headquartered in Paris, the company conducts testing in Italy, while securing funding from the UK. This blend of influences has allowed Newcleo to raise over €400 million in a short time, despite the absence of an active nuclear prototype.
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Unlike many other European companies, Newcleo is taking the lead with a bold vision for the lead-cooled reactor and an industrial ambition that could shape the future of nuclear energy. With Italy’s backing, the company now has institutional credibility and is pushing forward with plans for a research center in Chusclan, France, where the next phase of development will take place.
The Political and Technical Landscape for Nuclear in Italy
While Italy’s nuclear resurgence is politically sensitive, the government is taking a cautious approach. The new legislation doesn’t yet call for the construction of nuclear plants but sets the stage for a future where nuclear energy is reintroduced into Italy’s energy mix. This will align with Italy’s carbon neutrality goal by 2050, providing a cleaner, more sustainable source of power.
Newcleo’s approach is well-suited for this phase of exploration. Instead of huge, complex reactors like the EPR designs, Newcleo focuses on modular, adaptable reactors that can integrate into decentralized grids. This makes nuclear power feel more approachable and manageable, while also playing a key strategic role in the energy transition.
Looking Ahead: Italy’s Future in Nuclear Energy
The €200 million commitment from the Italian government is a crucial first step in a larger effort to rebuild the country’s nuclear capabilities. It’s an investment in energy security, job creation, and technological innovation, and it could position Italy as a leader in next-generation nuclear reactors.
As the world continues to seek solutions to the climate crisis, small modular reactors like those being developed by Newcleo may offer an alternative to traditional power sources. With Italy’s renewed interest in nuclear energy, it’s clear that this energy source has a vital role to play in the country’s future—and possibly in Europe’s as well.