Italy sees surge in public support for nuclear power amid energy crisis

A recent survey by the Futuri Probabili research centre found that more than 60 % of Italians under 35 now favour the construction of new nuclear reactors, reversing decades‑long opposition. Overall, 49 % of respondents across the country support nuclear projects, with the strongest backing in the industrial north and centre. The Ministry of Education plans to introduce specialised training for technicians and engineers, aiming to create thousands of jobs in the emerging fourth‑generation nuclear sector.

Commentators warn that the push for nuclear energy is tied to broader political and economic pressures. They argue that the current energy crisis—exacerbated by the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and rising fuel prices—has been used to accelerate a “green transition” that prioritises large‑scale infrastructure over local concerns. Critics point to Sardinia and other peripheral regions as testing grounds for new facilities, highlighting tensions between national policy and community impacts. "I ragazzi sanno che la frontiera del nucleare di quarta generazione è più pulito rispetto ad altre fonti," observes Luciano Violante, noting the appeal of newer, supposedly cleaner reactor designs.