Ansaldo, ENEL and Leonardo, agreement for nuclear development in Italy

ENEL, the multinational energy corporation, Leonardo, a defense contractor, and Ansaldo Energia, an energy provider, will establish a joint venture for the purpose of advancing nuclear power and constructing Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in Italy for diverse applications. The newly formed entity will undertake a feasibility study to ascertain the most appropriate nuclear technology for implementation within the country. ENEL will contribute its operational expertise from nuclear power plants in Spain, Leonardo will investigate nuclear power applications within the defense sector, and Ansaldo Nucleare, based in Genoa, will focus on the development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) utilizing the ISIS and IRIS systems. While the Italian government favors SMRs as a nuclear energy solution, their implementation is projected to require a significant timeframe, with estimates exceeding ten years. This initiative follows recent legislative developments in Italy that suggest a possible reinstatement of nuclear power, which was prohibited in 1987.