Story perspectives

Italy Senate Approves Nuclear Law for Modular Reactors

By Drooid · Sep 23, 2026, 11:36 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Italy's Senate approved a nuclear law with an 81-51 vote and seven abstentions.
The law gives the government 12 months to issue licensing, safety and waste decrees.
It authorizes only small and advanced modular reactors, excluding large conventional plants.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni says nuclear power will improve energy security and climate targets.
A June 2026 poll showed about 55% of Italians support next-generation nuclear plants.

History

Historical Context

After the 1986 Chernobyl accident, Italy held a November 1987 referendum that abolished nuclear statutes, prompting the Craxi government to close its four reactors by 1990. A 2011 referendum again rejected new plants, with 94% voting against. The legacy of these votes now frames the current debate over small-modular reactors.

1 of 2

Story summary

Italy's Senate approved a nuclear law with an 81-51 vote and seven abstentions.
The law gives the government 12 months to issue licensing, safety and waste decrees.
It authorizes only small and advanced modular reactors, excluding large conventional plants.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni says nuclear power will improve energy security and climate targets.
A June 2026 poll showed about 55% of Italians support next-generation nuclear plants.

1 / 2