The Greek government is considering the use of floating nuclear power plants to secure the country’s electricity supply. As Handelsblatt reports, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis stated that strategically, there is no way around nuclear power. Until now, Greece has primarily relied on renewable energy and natural gas.
With this initiative, Athens is responding to growing energy demand and geopolitical tensions in the eastern Mediterranean. Floating reactors, installed on ships or platforms, are seen as a more flexible alternative to land-based nuclear plants. The government in Athens sees this as a way to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
However, risks remain that must be assessed during the review. These include safety issues, disposal of radioactive waste, and public acceptance. Greece had spoken out against nuclear power after the Fukushima nuclear disaster in 2011.
The initiative is part of a broader realignment of Greek energy policy. The country is also expanding its role as a regional energy hub, for example through training Libyan coast guard officers and trade missions to Benghazi. A final decision on entering nuclear power is still pending.
Source: www.handelsblatt.com
