Italy's Senate on Wednesday approved legislation giving the government authority to establish a framework for new nuclear power, as the country pushes to bring nuclear energy back into its energy mix.
The bill, approved after passing the Chamber of Deputies, allows the government to issue one or more implementing decrees within 12 months of its entry into force. The legislation is designed to regulate the development of what Italy calls "sustainable" nuclear power, including new reactors and fusion technologies.
Environment and Energy Security Minister Gilberto Pichetto described the approval as the completion of a process that began three years ago and said nuclear power could complement renewable energy in strengthening Italy's energy security while supporting its goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.
The legislation calls for a National Program covering the production and use of energy from nuclear fission and fusion. It will also establish rules for the testing, siting, construction, installation and operation of new nuclear facilities.
The government will also be tasked with reorganizing rules governing nuclear safety, oversight and controls, as well as nuclear fuel management and the storage and eventual disposal of radioactive waste and spent fuel.
The legislation includes provisions for decommissioning and dismantling existing nuclear facilities and calls for stronger scientific and industrial research, governance, and skills development.