EU Faces Complex Path to Expanding Nuclear Power Capacity

Nuclear energy has re‑emerged at the centre of European energy debates as the bloc grapples with concerns over energy security, strategic autonomy, industrial competitiveness and the need for home‑grown low‑carbon power. A CEPS in‑depth analysis notes that expanding nuclear capacity across the EU will require coordinated action by industry, Member States and EU institutions.

The report highlights that the nuclear industry must rebuild supply chains, improve project‑delivery capabilities after a history of delays and cost overruns, and future‑proof new technologies. Member States willing to pursue nuclear are urged to end stop‑and‑go policies, provide long‑term political commitment, ensure regulatory predictability and create financing frameworks that can de‑risk the capital‑intensive, long‑horizon investments required.

The analysis was authored by Irina Kustova, Head of the Energy Programme at the Centre for European Policy Studies in Brussels, and Gustavo Quintana Cabrera, a research assistant in CEPS’s Energy, Resources and Climate Change unit.