Why European Union needs nuclear power

According to one of the scenarios conceived by the GIEC, a multiplication by 6 of the today's world nuclear capacity is necessary if we want to meet the climate objectives. Nuclear energy presents various advantages: as much carbon-free as wind energy, security of energy supply, or reasonable costs. We have to add that nuclear industry already benefits from a strong implantation in Europe and some companies are world leaders. Nuclear industry provides skilled jobs on the long term: each GW provides jobs for about 10.000 people and adds 4.3 billions euros to the GDP. Despite all these considerations, the future of nuclear power in the E.U. is uncertain, a fragile balance has set between E.U members that are opposed and those who want to develop nuclear energy. E.U. decision-makers on energy issues tend to consider uniquely renewable energies and energy efficiency, leaving apart nuclear power. (A.C.)