Net-Zero Industry Act Includes Nuclear Power
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It was thought that the intense discussions on whether to recognize nuclear power as a green resource would bury the Act. However, twelve nuclear energy-producing countries held firm, and the European Parliament had to accept this inclusion to avoid being responsible for the failure of the energy transition. Ultimately, the Net-Zero Industry Act was approved, allowing the inclusion of nuclear energy among recognized green technologies. This decision sparked mixed reactions but is seen as a necessary compromise to achieve the EU’s climate goals.
By Charles STRASS – 3 MINUTES READ
Brussels, June 3, 2024 – Europe has adopted the Net-Zero Industry Act, a comprehensive set of measures designed to encourage European industry to advance energy technologies in pursuit of climate neutrality.
It is a comprehensive Regulation aimed at bolstering the EU’s green technology manufacturing. This is another stress test for the european industry, but it was seen as crucial for achieving the EU’s ambitious climate goals and strengthening its industrial base.
Difficult Political Discussions and Challenges
The path to the Net-Zero Industry Act (NZIA) approval was marked by intense negotiations between the European Parliament and the EU Council. Key points of contention included the inclusion of nuclear energy as a net-zero technology and the implementation timelines for solar and wind energy regulations.
The gross electricity generation from nuclear plants within the EU in 2022 amounted to 609,255 GWh, representing 21.8% of the total electricity produced in the EU. Thirteen EU countries produce part of their electricity with nuclear sources and could not accept closing their nuclear plants due to ideological positions. Twelve countries insisted and presented their arguments to the European Parliament, which was initially resistant.
On another issue, the Council’s initial proposal did not differentiate between energy sources, leading to criticism from the solar industry. The final agreement addressed these disparities by incorporating differentiated timelines and acknowledging the readiness of various sectors. The European Parliament confirmed this by a Plenary vote on 25 April 2024, and the EU Council followed on 27 May 2024.
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