Nuclear energy is back in the news. The new one underlines it study published by EY Nuclear energy is on the verge of a renaissanceaccording to which the economic impact, including direct and indirect effects, in Italy it would amount to around 45 billion euros. In fact, a generation of added value of 45 billion euros is expected, accompanied by savings of 400 billion compared to a scenario based solely on renewable sources and conventional power plants. In employment terms, the creation of over half a million jobs nationwide is expected by 2050, as well as the creation of 52,000 new full-time jobs in the short term, exclusively related to the construction phase.
This is how we fight climate change
“The road to decarbonization will require a comprehensive and diversified approach to energy production” he underlines Paola Testa, EY Europe West Energy & Resources Consulting Leader. “In this context, nuclear energy is emerging as an essential tool in combating climate change. For this reason, even in Italy, collaboration between institutions, the academic and industrial world is crucial to consolidate the path towards the energy transition of which this energy represents the future. The country already has strong skills in the field, especially in the supply chain, but it will be essential to consolidate investments and overcome the challenges linked to the adoption of this technology to transform them into opportunities for growth and development”.
Based on EY estimates, we note that the beneficial impact of European cooperation project ‘Iter’, currently under development, could reach 15.9 billion euros within the European economy, considering the advantages related to research, development and skills required on the labor market, as well as environmental benefits. To these would be added more than 70 thousand new jobs to be created by 2030 within the European Union, with Italy as the main beneficiary.
Italians are in favor of the sun if…
In this regard, the study shows that the sentiment about nuclear power in our country 54% of individuals see the return of nuclear energy in the country favorably, as long as it serves to significantly reduce the amount of costs on the bill; 20% in favor of nuclear power in any case; finally, 26% of those interviewed were against it.
Reflecting national trends, observes EY, the Piedmontese municipality of Trino has recently decided to propose itself as a site for the national storage of radioactive waste. This decision comes following objections raised by many of the municipalities originally identified as possible candidates. This proactive step also represents a positive signal in terms of acceptance on the topic.