The Changing Role of Nuclear Power in the European Union: Reflections from Official Scenarios Released before and after the Fukushima Daiichi Accident

Abstract

Nuclear energy plays an important role in the global and European energy sectors. The nuclear disaster of Fukushima Daiichi has amplified the debate on the potential future roles of nuclear energy in the EU and has had impacts on the European Member States’ energy policies; however, the reactions of the member states were vary. Concerns about common legislation, waste management, safety and risk management have also strengthened. Initiatives were taken at national, regional and international levels. The goal of this study is to highlight the main advantages and disadvantages of nuclear energy utilisation in the light of the official forecasts released before and after the Japanese accident.