The past year has seen the landscape surrounding nuclear energy in the UK, Europe and Central Asia evolving amid persistent global challenges. The ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East continue to cast shadows over the geopolitical scene, threatening both energy security and sustainability. The economic repercussions of these conflicts are felt worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for reliable energy sources.
The results of elections in the UK, EU, and USA this past year have sent mixed signals concerning future energy policies. While some regions embrace the green transition, others remain tethered to traditional fossil fuels. COP29 closed with a renewed sense of urgency but again fell short of ambitious commitments to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. As climate change accelerates, increasingly severe weather patterns are occurring and the demand for alternative clean energy sources has become more pressing than ever.
Against this backdrop, the prospects for nuclear energy have brightened considerably. During 2024 big strides were made towards wider public and governmental recognition of nuclear as a critical part of the transition to a cleaner energy future. Governments across Europe have reaffirmed their commitment to nuclear power as a key element in achieving energy independence and meeting climate targets.
The New Nuclear Watch Institute (NNWI) has played a pivotal role in advocating for nuclear energy as a sustainable solution. Throughout 2024, the Institute expanded its initiatives, particularly in Central Asia, where discussions of nuclear energy's role in regional stability and development are gaining momentum. NNWI's efforts, established through its branch in Kazakhstan, are crucial in promoting nuclear energy as a viable option for addressing both energy security and climate change challenges.
In line with its mission, NNWI has continued to produce comprehensive research reports, notably on small modular reactors (SMRs). The report released last year assesses the current landscape of SMR deployment, identifying key players and the anticipated challenges and opportunities for various stakeholders. Initial insights suggest that while SMRs hold great promise, large-scale impact will take time, with substantial reactor infrastructure needing to be prioritized for rapid climate action.
A key highlight for NNWI last year was its collaboration with various international partners, culminating in successful workshops across Turkey and Central Asia. These events brought together journalists, policymakers, and industry experts to discuss the transformative potential of nuclear energy in a low-carbon world. By fostering informed public discourse, NNWI aims to counter misconceptions about nuclear energy and showcase its role in energy diversification.
Looking toward 2025, several trends are likely to influence the nuclear industry. First, growing investment in nuclear technology is expected, catalyzed by an increasing recognition of its role in the decarbonization of electricity. Companies are also developing innovative energy storage solutions to complement nuclear power, thereby ensuring a more stable grid function.
Moreover, regulatory frameworks across Europe are anticipated to evolve, with several countries accelerating their permitting processes to facilitate new nuclear projects. The alignment of standards and closer cross-border cooperation could enhance project efficiencies, further boosting the attractions of nuclear investment. Multilateral partnerships will be essential to ensure delivery of major projects while navigating the complexities of public acceptance and environmental concerns.
Following up on the progress made in 2024, I hope that advances in nuclear technology, coupled with collaboration at national and international levels will position the industry to capitalize on its renewed credibility and importance in our energy future. NNWI remains committed to supporting these developments, advocating for policies that favour nuclear energy expansion, and promoting informed dialogue that highlights the benefits of a diverse energy mix.
