Italy gives final parliamentary approval to nuclear revival framework

The Italian Senate's summary of public sitting No. 458 confirms final parliamentary approval. The law delegates the government to establish a unified framework for the full nuclear-energy lifecycle within 12 months, including facilities, radioactive waste, safety, siting, research, training and public information.

Reuters reported that the government wants to deploy advanced modular reactors to reduce industrial decarbonisation costs and strengthen energy security. The government previously estimated that nuclear energy supplying at least 11% of the mix by 2050 could save about €17 billion in decarbonisation costs; the national energy and climate plan says the share could eventually reach 22%.

Italy phased out its reactors after a 1987 referendum and remains heavily dependent on imported energy, including nuclear-generated electricity from neighbours such as France. The government says new technology and safety standards have changed the policy context, while opponents cite safety, construction times, waste and land use.

The law requires later rules for decommissioning legacy facilities, radioactive-waste management, independent oversight and local participation. The Senate also accepted revised motions requiring consultation with the public and residents around proposed facilities. Any specific project would still need planning, regulatory review and permits.

Verification status: confirmed. The Italian Senate's sitting summary and the Environment and Energy Security Ministry confirm final approval; Reuters supplied policy context. News value: A-level major news. Origin: Italy, Europe. Primary section: Economy/energy. Related regions: Europe and worldwide. Official sources published September 23, 2026; N Globe report time: September 23, 2026, 16:25 UTC. N Globe editorial illustration, not an image of an existing nuclear project or the live parliamentary sitting.