Nuclear: A pivotal point for emissions reduction at COP29

In the run-up to COP29, Azerbaijan is taking a proactive stance in promoting nuclear power as a viable solution for reducing global emissions. The initiative, supported by the IAEA at a recent summit in Brussels, aims to integrate nuclear power into global climate strategies.
Nucléaire COP29

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At the Nuclear Energy Summit in Brussels, emphasis was placed on the crucial role of nuclear power in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Discussions set the scene for COP29, highlighting the safety and accessibility of nuclear technologies.

Expanding the role of nuclear power at COP28

The adoption of nuclear power as a solution for reducing emissions at COP28 marks a historic turning point. This reflects ongoing efforts to guarantee the safety of nuclear energy, and underlines the essential role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). This recognition paves the way for increased use of nuclear energy, with a focus on enhanced safety and affordable access to nuclear technologies for peaceful purposes.

Azerbaijan’s commitment as host of COP29

Azerbaijan, the controversial host of COP29, pledges to lead efforts to achieve concrete results at the Baku event. The aim is to ensure the inclusion of nuclear power in COP resource discussions, with a focus on safe, secure, equitable and affordable expansion, while ensuring environmental sustainability.

Innovations and safety

The country is also exploring with the IAEA the use of nuclear technologies to detect landmines, a major challenge for Azerbaijan. This effort underlines the importance of nuclear technology not only for energy production, but also for environmental and safety applications.

The text of the COP28 global agreement recognizes the need for deep, rapid and sustained cuts in greenhouse gas emissions, aiming for a reduction of 43% by 2030 and 60% by 2035 compared to 2019 levels. The agreement encourages a transition from fossil fuels to emission-free energy systems, including nuclear and other technologies such as carbon capture and storage, in a global effort to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

After several decades without funding nuclear projects, the World Bank has formed a strategic partnership with the IAEA to provide technical and financial support to countries integrating nuclear energy into their energy strategies.
South Korea's Nuclear Safety and Security Commission officially validates the decommissioning of reactor number one at the Kori plant, initiating an unprecedented project for the national industry scheduled to last until 2037.
Uranium producer enCore Energy surpasses three thousand pounds per day at its Alta Mesa ISR complex and sees three new Texas laws as a strong signal for faster nuclear production permits.
The International Atomic Energy Agency expresses concerns over Iran’s enriched uranium stockpiles following the abrupt suspension of inspections at key sites disrupted by recent attacks whose consequences remain uncertain.
NPCIL has announced an extension until September 30 for industrial proposals concerning Bharat Small Reactors (BSR), following increased interest from the Indian private sector.
A regional court has upheld the award of two new reactors in the Czech Republic to Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power, dismissing Électricité de France’s challenge to the €16bn contract in a decisive step for the national energy programme.
Facing rising temperatures, EDF anticipates cuts in nuclear production starting early July, primarily due to thermal constraints on rivers used for cooling the power plants.
The preliminary agreement launches planning and site assessment for a tailored AP1000 reactor, following two years of feasibility study, and enlists Westinghouse and Hyundai to support Fortum’s regional nuclear expansion.
Donald Trump's unprecedented decision to dismiss Christopher Hanson, a member of the NRC, provokes outrage among former federal officials and raises concerns over the regulatory independence of the U.S. nuclear sector.
Uranium Energy Corp strengthens its position in Anfield Energy Inc., now holding approximately 32.4% of the company’s shares following an investment of CAD19.55mn ($14.82mn), significantly expanding its strategic influence in the uranium market.
New York State plans an advanced nuclear power plant with a 1-gigawatt capacity to meet long-term energy and economic goals, involving significant investment to enhance regional energy independence.
Niger announces its intention to nationalize SOMAÏR, a mining company jointly owned with Orano, provoking strong opposition from the French company and paving the way for further international legal tensions.
Russia strengthens its economic presence in Mali with new agreements, notably in nuclear energy and gold refining, consolidating strategic cooperation within a rapidly evolving geopolitical context.
The US government grants a fourth payment of $100.45 mn to Holtec International to restart the Palisades Nuclear Plant, pending regulatory approval, marking an unprecedented event in the United States.
EDF announces a major agreement with Apollo to raise up to £4.5 billion via bonds to finance the British nuclear project Hinkley Point C, whose costs continue to rise significantly.
The Élysée proposes Anne-Isabelle Étienvre, current Director of Fundamental Research at the CEA, as General Administrator to replace François Jacq, recently appointed President of CNES.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has announced his country's interest in small modular nuclear reactors to meet national energy challenges and decarbonize the maritime sector within the next fifteen years.
TerraPower, an American nuclear company, secures $650 million funding from investors, including NVIDIA, to develop its Natrium modular reactors in the United States and internationally.
EDF and the French state finalize a €70 billion financing plan for six EPR2 nuclear reactors, including a specific territorial coordination framework in Gravelines led by Michel Marbaix, awaiting European approval by 2026.
Maire S.p.A and Newcleo form strategic partnership to industrialise the development of 200 MW modular nuclear power plants, via a joint venture majority-owned by Nextchem.