The head of the International Energy Agency stated in an interview published on Friday that Italy should reconsider its decision to abandon nuclear power as it seeks to enhance energy security and economic stability. Italy currently has no operational nuclear reactors and relies heavily on energy imports, including nuclear-generated electricity from neighboring countries such as France. Following two national referendums in 1987 and 2011, Italy prohibited the construction of nuclear power plants, but the government is now drafting regulations aimed at lifting this ban through the adoption of new nuclear technologies. When asked whether Italy's ongoing discussions about restarting nuclear power were the right course of action, IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol said, "I am aware that Italy rejected nuclear power in two referendums. However, as I mentioned in Rome two years ago, if I were part of the Italian government, I would reconsider this decision and conduct a more in-depth study of nuclear energy." Birol noted that Italy lacks abundant energy resources and, despite its strong performance in renewable energy, still requires "stable and continuous electricity production." He emphasized that for economic prosperity, energy security, and national sovereignty, the Italian government should carefully evaluate nuclear power, including both conventional nuclear technologies and new modular reactors. The Italian government has drafted a new legal framework for nuclear power, which is expected to be approved by parliament in the coming months. However, the issue remains controversial among the majority of the public. Since the outbreak of the conflict in Iran, policymakers worldwide have increasingly sought to reduce long-term dependence on oil and gas imports, including by expanding the use of nuclear power. Opponents of nuclear energy cite safety concerns, high upfront construction costs, and lengthy construction timelines as reasons for their opposition.
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