Civil nuclear energy complementing renewables is key to Europe’s manufacturing future: FACE’s long-standing commitment
FACE has long championed the role of civil nuclear energy in securing the future of Europe’s energy-intensive industries.
As the Confindustria–ENEA report gains attention in Italy’s public debate, and industrial voices like Assofond advocate for a nuclear revival, it’s worth recalling that, from our early calls to include nuclear in the EU Net-Zero Industry Act, to our support for SMRs (Small Modular Reactors) and our belief in nuclear-powered green aluminium, FACE has consistently argued that stable, clean, and affordable electricity is essential not only for decarbonisation — but also for reindustrialisation.
- Europe cannot meet its demand for light metal with recycling alone.
- Aluminium SMEs need competitive electricity to survive and innovate.
- Restarting primary aluminium in Europe requires bold energy choices.
With 92% of the aluminium workforce in the downstream sector, Europe must move beyond taboos and embrace every realistic pathway to clean growth. Civil nuclear energy is one of them.
Resources:
- https://face-aluminium.com/documents/press-release-energy-conserva-face-historic-eu-decision-to-include-civil-nuclear-power-in-net-zero-industry-act/
- https://face-aluminium.com/newcleo-and-danieli-sign-mou-to-explore-nuclear-powered-green-steel/
- https://face-aluminium.com/the-eu-aluminium-industry-in-a-world-in-upheaval-key-risks-and-opportunities/
- Mario Conserva’s Article in A&L (August 2023) – https://www.calameo.com/publitec/read/007274363576659918bdf
- Assofond Press Release (18/07/25) – https://www.assofond.it/-/assofond-nucleare-strategico-nel-mix-energetico-del-futuro-il-comparto-fonderia-e-pronto-a-contribuire-alla-filiera-nazionale-
- Confindustria-ENEA Report (16/07/25) – https://www.media.enea.it/comunicati-e-news/archivio-anni/anno-2025/energia-nucleare-confindustria-ed-enea-presentano-studio-su-tecnologie-costi-e-ricadute.html