Greece is preparing to explore nuclear energy as part of its long-term energy strategy, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced at the 2nd Nuclear Energy Summit in Paris. Speaking alongside international leaders, Mitsotakis emphasized the complementarity of nuclear power to Greece’s growing renewable energy portfolio and stressed the urgency of considering all energy options in times of global uncertainty.
“Greece is not historically a nuclear country, but it is time for us to explore whether nuclear energy, especially small modular reactors (SMRs), can play a role,” Mitsotakis said. He confirmed that the government will set up an interministerial committee to provide definitive recommendations on the subject.
Mitsotakis highlighted Greece’s achievements in renewable energy. “We have invested in renewables over the past years. Today, over half of our electricity comes from solar and wind. These investments have transformed Greece from an electricity importer into an exporter. We will continue to invest in renewable energy,” he said.
However, the Prime Minister stressed that renewable sources alone cannot replace nuclear energy. “As President Macron acknowledged, Europe cannot achieve its energy goals without nuclear power. Over the past two decades, nuclear energy’s contribution in Europe has declined, and solar panels alone have not restored it. Nuclear power is clearly making a comeback,” he said.
Mitsotakis also addressed the rapid technological changes affecting electricity demand. “As demand rises, even expanding renewables will not be enough. We need technology capable of integrating nuclear energy,” he explained, noting that regulatory complexity in Europe has slowed progress but can be resolved.
He further highlighted the importance of nuclear power in maritime transport, stating that Greece faces no reliable solution to reduce carbon emissions in shipping. “Nuclear energy must be part of this conversation. Greece wants to be at the forefront,” he said.
Mitsotakis concluded by underlining the broader strategic importance of nuclear power. “In times of major global disruptions, all options must be on the table. Nuclear energy can be part of the solution, whether it plays a direct role in Greece or supports our European partners. Greece is ready to write a new chapter. We are friends of nuclear energy,” he said.