An IENE Working Group, consisting of experts from Bulgaria and Greece, met today (May 29) in Sofia, to examine the role of nuclear energy for power generation in SE Europe. A review was conducted of the latest developments in nuclear related projects and initiatives focusing on Bulgaria, Romania and Turkey. In spite of the setback on their nuclear plans suffered by certain European countries, following the Fukushima disaster in March 2011, enthusiasm for nuclear electricity has not waned in the SE European region. Financing considerations and the role of government appear to be the determining factors for the advancement of nuclear plans in all countries.
In reviewing the overall situation with regard to nuclear power generation in SE Europe and the role of the IENE, the Working Group concluded that it would be advisable for the Institute to conduct an independent assessment. In this context a report could be prepared which would form a useful background document for a high level regional conference on nuclear power generation which IENE could convene in the first quarter of 2014. Furthermore the Working Group recognized IENE’s useful role in advancing much needed public debate on nuclear energy and its contribution to economic and social development on grounds of energy security, meeting long term electricity demand needs and greenhouse gas emissions mitigation.
