Insights from the Latest Economic and Social Impact Report by nucleareurope

Nuclear energy plays a pivotal role beyond electricity generation, significantly contributing to Europe’s economic development and sustainable future. The latest Economic and Social Impact Report by Deloitte, commissioned by nucleareurope, provides a comprehensive analysis of the extensive benefits associated with expanding nuclear capacity within the European Union.

Quantifying Economic and Employment Impacts

The report projects that increasing installed nuclear capacity to 150 GW by 2050—up from approximately 106 GW currently—could:

  • Generate in excess of €330 billion in annual economic output

  • Support close to 1.5 million direct and indirect jobs across the EU

  • Enhance energy security while accelerating decarbonisation efforts

At present, the nuclear sector contributes approximately €251.2 billion annually to the EU’s economic output and sustains over 883,000 jobs. These figures underscore the sector’s substantial economic footprint and its potential for further expansion.

Broader Socio-Environmental Contributions

Nuclear energy’s value extends beyond power generation, underpinning Europe’s clean energy transition by providing:

  • Stable, high-skilled employment opportunities throughout the nuclear supply chain and associated industries

  • Robust public health and safety standards supported by advanced technological innovation

  • Socioeconomic benefits through regional development and community engagement, with nuclear facilities often serving as economic anchors

  • A reliable source of large-scale, dispatchable low-carbon electricity essential for meeting stringent climate targets

Policy Framework: Enabling Sustainable Investment

The report emphasizes the necessity of a coherent and forward-looking policy framework to unlock the full potential of nuclear energy. As the European Commission finalizes the Nuclear Illustrative Programme (Pinc) and the forthcoming Multiannual Financial Framework, it is critical to establish clear, actionable measures that facilitate long-term investment. This includes mechanisms to secure financing, develop specialized workforce capabilities, and reinforce supply chain resilience.

Conclusion

The analysis by nucleareurope substantiates nuclear energy’s integral role as a driver of economic growth, employment, and environmental sustainability within Europe. As the EU formulates its long-term energy strategy, maintaining nuclear energy as a central component is essential to achieving climate objectives, ensuring energy security, and preserving global competitiveness.

For a detailed examination of nuclear energy’s multifaceted contributions, access the full Economic and Social Impact Report by nucleareurope.