The Key Messages and Outcomes Report from the FISA-EURADWASTE 2025 & SNETP Forum is now available, offering a detailed summary of the key discussions and results from this 3-in1 event held in Warsaw, Poland, from May 12 to 16, 2025. Organized under the auspices of the Polish presidency of the European Council, the conference gathered stakeholders from across the nuclear sector to explore the crucial role of research and innovation in shaping Europe’s energy future.

The FISA-EURADWASTE-SNETP FORUM 2025 highlighted the central role that nuclear energy plays in advancing the European Union’s climate, industrial, and energy goals, particularly in the context of decarbonisation, energy sovereignty, and strategic competitiveness. With the EU’s commitment to climate neutrality by 2050, nuclear energy is once again in the spotlight, given its ability to deliver reliable, low-carbon electricity while complementing the growing deployment of renewable energy sources.

Key Outcomes from the event:

The report shines a light on the numerous outcomes that reflect the growing momentum behind nuclear energy in Europe, including:

  1. Nuclear Energy as a Pillar of Decarbonisation & Climate Strategy: With a focus on achieving 90% greenhouse gas reduction by 2040, nuclear energy remains essential for the EU’s strategy to reach climate neutrality by mid-century.

  2. Security of Energy Supply: Nuclear energy’s contribution to a stable, dispatchable power supply continues to be a cornerstone for Europe’s energy future.

  3. Technological Leadership and SMRs: The event emphasized the need for Europe to enhance its efforts in next-generation nuclear technologies, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and fusion energy. This discussion ties into broader global investments in these innovative solutions and underscores Europe’s need to maintain a competitive edge in nuclear research and development.

  4. Rebuilding Momentum for Nuclear New Build: Lessons from recent large-scale projects underscore the importance of standardisation, modular construction, and supply chain integration. Addressing first-of-a-kind (FOAK) challenges, improving workforce capacity, and fostering EU-wide technical alignment are critical for delivering timely and cost-effective nuclear infrastructure.

  5. Innovation for Strategic Autonomy and Fuel Cycle Closure: Europe must pursue a dual-track strategy: maturing near-term technologies (e.g. ATFs, MOX, HALEU) while supporting breakthrough innovations in fast reactors, multi-recycling, and advanced materials. EU-funded collaborative R&D remains central to reducing waste, enhancing safety, and achieving closed fuel cycles.

  6. Non-Electric Applications and Hybrid Systems: Nuclear energy’s role extends beyond electricity to industrial heat, hydrogen production, and district heating. High-temperature reactors (e.g., HTGRs) and SMRs are seen as strategic assets for decarbonising hard-to-abate sectors. Cross-sector partnerships and targeted R&D (e.g., TANDEM, GEMINI) are key to scaling these hybrid applications.

  7. Youth and Social Engagement: A key highlight was the active participation of the younger generation, with 18% of attendees being early-career professionals. The event also showcased the importance of integrating ethical and social considerations into nuclear energy research, while fostering a strong societal dialogue on the future of nuclear energy.

  8. Cross-Sector Cooperation and Innovation: The Forum brought attention to the growing importance of cross-sector innovation, including the integration of digital tools, artificial intelligence, and high-tech applications, which will be essential for enhancing nuclear safety and sustainability.

  9. Support from Key Institutions: The European Commission, European Investment Bank (EIB), and the World Bank are all increasingly aligned with nuclear energy’s role in Europe’s decarbonisation and energy security efforts, with initiatives such as the Euratom research programme and IPCEI (Important Project of Common European Interest) paving the way for further cross-border investments in nuclear innovation.

  10. Strengthening Europe’s Research Infrastructure and International Cooperation: The event highlighted the importance of open-access research facilities, cross-border data sharing, and coordinated international efforts. Long-term investment in pan-European infrastructures and collaboration with global partners are essential to sustain scientific leadership, accelerate innovation, and ensure the safe deployment of advanced nuclear technologies.

The FISA-EURADWASTE 2025 & SNETP Forum successfully reinforced the strategic role of nuclear energy in the EU’s energy landscape, generating rich discussions that will guide future research and innovation efforts.

This report serves as a valuable resource for stakeholders to continue engaging with the findings, ensuring that the outcomes of the Forum will catalyze continued progress and collaboration in the nuclear sector.

For more detailed insights and technical discussions from the sessions, the full Key Messages and Outcomes Report is now available here.