Projects included in the list will gain access to simplified permit-granting procedures and regulatory assistance, while also becoming eligible for EU funding through the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF). The upcoming funding cycle is set to begin with the Commission’s 2026 CEF call at the end of April 2026, with application submissions closing at the end of September 2026. These funding mechanisms are expected to accelerate the execution of cross-border projects, ensuring that critical infrastructure developments proceed without unnecessary administrative delays.

A significant share of the selected projects, 113 out of 235, focuses on electricity, offshore development, and smart grid systems, all of which are essential for integrating renewable energy sources into the European grid. Additionally, the list includes 100 hydrogen and electrolyser initiatives, alongside 3 smart gas grid projects, aimed at decarbonising industry and transport while reducing reliance on natural gas imports. The inclusion of 17 CO2 network projects further aligns with EU ambitions to establish a carbon capture and storage market. Together, these cross-border projects are positioned to play a central role in reshaping Europe’s energy landscape.

Implementation will be supported by the European Commission through enhanced political coordination with Member States, leveraging regional High-Level Groups and the Energy Union Task Force. The initiative complements broader frameworks such as the European Grids Package and the Energy Highways Initiative, which collectively aim to address infrastructure bottlenecks and strengthen system resilience. Since 2014, the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF-Energy) has allocated €8.7 billion to key projects, including the Baltic synchronisation, a major milestone in integrating the Baltic states into the EU energy system. Looking ahead, the Commission has proposed increasing the CEF Energy budget from €5.84 billion to €29.91 billion under the 2028-2034 Multi-annual Financial Framework.

During the visit, Khattar met with Bhutan’s Prime Minister, Tshering Tobgay, where both sides reiterated their commitment to deepening engagement in clean energy initiatives and sustainability efforts. Their discussions emphasized a shared ambition to build a resilient, low-carbon future through closer coordination. In a separate meeting with Gem Tshering, Bhutan’s Minister for Energy and Natural Resources, talks focused on reinforcing ongoing hydropower collaboration while identifying new opportunities in renewable energy development and regional power trade. These engagements further reinforced the central role of the energy partnership in driving bilateral progress.

A significant development from the visit was the creation of an enhanced bilateral institutional framework mechanism. This structure is intended to support systematic coordination and periodic review of joint initiatives while expanding cooperation into emerging areas such as non-hydro renewable energy, cross-border transmission infrastructure, project financing, and capacity building. The framework is expected to provide a more organized approach to advancing the energy partnership and ensuring efficient execution of collaborative projects.

The visit also resulted in the signing of two major agreements, further strengthening the energy partnership. The first was a Tariff Protocol for the 1020 MW Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project, a milestone in hydropower cooperation. The project was jointly inaugurated by Narendra Modi and Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck on November 11, 2025, and began exporting surplus power to India in September 2025 under a mutually agreed tariff structure. The second agreement, a Methodology for Reactive Energy Accounting, establishes a technical framework aimed at improving grid stability, enhancing efficiency in cross-border electricity exchange, and streamlining bilateral power trade mechanisms. Together, these developments are expected to open new pathways for cooperation, reinforcing India–Bhutan ties and advancing regional energy security and sustainable growth.

Technological progress is making agentic AI and robotics more capable, cost-effective, and safer to deploy, particularly as manufacturers confront a growing talent shortage linked to an aging workforce and the erosion of institutional knowledge. In early-stage deployments, the energy demands of AI may appear minimal. For instance, Agility Robotics, which has introduced its humanoid robot Digit to clients including Amazon, GXO and Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada, estimates that power consumption costs are about $1 per shift. This relatively low figure often reassures companies that are just beginning their automation journey. However, as deployments expand, the energy demands of AI can grow significantly, presenting a different operational reality for manufacturers scaling these technologies.

One notable shift is the evolving relationship between energy consumption and production output. Traditionally linked, the two are now increasingly decoupled, reshaping how manufacturers evaluate efficiency. AI systems can analyze sensor data, anticipate failures, and recommend corrective actions in real time. The outcome is reduced unplanned downtime and more stable production cycles, which also contribute to improved energy efficiency, as machinery operating optimally consumes less power than equipment awaiting repair. Despite these gains, the broader energy demands of AI are intensifying competition for power resources, particularly as manufacturing firms increasingly contend with data centers for available energy capacity.

The challenge is further compounded by constraints in energy availability, which may delay facility expansions or new site openings if sufficient power cannot be secured. At the same time, alternative energy solutions are gaining traction. A recent industrial report spanning sectors such as cleantech manufacturing, data centers, and AI indicates that renewables are leading the transition toward cleaner energy sources, offering the potential to expand supply and reduce costs over time. Against this backdrop, industry experts emphasize that manufacturers aiming to fully realize the benefits of automation must integrate energy planning into their core strategies. Treating energy as a foundational input, rather than an afterthought, will be critical to managing the energy demands of AI effectively while sustaining productivity gains.

The origins of the project trace back to January 2014, when the government approved the construction of two APR1400 units designated as Saeul units 3 and 4, previously referred to as Shin Kori 5 and 6. Although construction was initially expected to begin in September 2014, the timeline shifted, with the regulator ultimately granting a construction licence in June 2016. Site activities commenced immediately thereafter, and construction of unit 3 officially began in April 2017. However, a change in government in June 2017 prompted Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) to halt work for three months. Progress resumed in October 2017 following a government-organised committee vote, where 59.5% supported continuing the project, citing power supply stability as a key factor. Construction of unit 4 later began in September 2018.

Before these delays, the two units were slated for commercial operation in March 2021 and March 2022. However, the timeline has since shifted significantly. In late December 2025, the NSSC granted an operating licence for the Saeul unit 3 reactor, clearing the way for fuel loading and an estimated eight months of testing. Commercial operation is now anticipated around August 2026, while Saeul 4 is expected to come online in late 2026. The NSSC has stated it will carry out additional follow-up inspections, including power increase tests, from the point at which the Saeul unit 3 reactor achieves first criticality, defined as a sustained chain reaction, through to full commercial operation.

Once operational, the Saeul unit 3 reactor is projected to contribute approximately 1.7% of South Korea’s total power generation and meet around 37% of Ulsan’s electricity demand. South Korea currently operates four APR1400 units, including Saeul units 1 and 2 and Shin Hanul units 1 and 2, while Saeul units 3 and 4 remain under construction. Beyond domestic deployment, four APR1400 reactors have also been completed at the Barakah nuclear power plant in the UAE, where they are now fully operational.

Located near Navenby in England, the Springwell development will feature an 800 MW photovoltaic (PV) plant integrated with battery storage. The 800 MW solar plant will be built on land in the region, where utility-scale capacity is expected to increase substantially in the coming years. The project is planned to be connected to a new 400 kV Navenby substation, which is being developed by National Grid Energy Transmission. This infrastructure will support the delivery of electricity generated by the 800 MW solar plant into the national grid, ensuring efficient power transmission as capacity grows.

The approval was granted through the UK government’s centralized planning framework for large-scale infrastructure, meaning the final decision rested with the Energy Secretary rather than local authorities. In England, electricity generation projects exceeding 100 MW must undergo the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project assessment process, overseen by the UK Planning Inspectorate. This process involves a detailed examination, after which the body submits its recommendation to the Secretary of State for Energy Security, who ultimately determines the outcome. The Springwell proposal was submitted for a development consent order (DCO) in November 2024, and following consultation and review, the Planning Inspectorate issued a positive recommendation on Jan. 8, 2026. Energy Secretary Ed Miliband formally granted the DCO on 8th April 2026, despite opposition from some local councils.

In parallel developments, Statkraft has launched a public consultation for the proposed Mylen Leah Solar Farm in East Yorkshire. The 500 MW project would be located on land surrounding a former airfield at Melbourne and would connect to the Thornton substation through an underground cable. The statutory consultation for Mylen Solar Farm is scheduled to run from April 16 to May 2026, with Statkraft aiming to submit its DCO application to the Planning Inspectorate before the end of 2026.

The new energy trust fund is being implemented under the ASEAN Infrastructure Fund (AIF), recognized as Southeast Asia’s largest regionally owned infrastructure financing platform, and is expected to broaden the scale and effectiveness of AIF-backed initiatives. Initial contributions totaling approximately $25 million have been secured from the Government of Australia, the Government of Canada, the European Union, the Government of Germany, and the Government of the United Kingdom. Administered by ADB in coordination with the AIF Board and ASEAN member states, the RCF will prioritize technical assistance and project readiness financing. This includes funding for feasibility studies, engineering design, financial structuring, and safeguards assessments, alongside policy advisory work, regulatory enhancements, capacity development, and knowledge-sharing initiatives to strengthen the ASEAN Power Grid ecosystem.

As energy demand in Southeast Asia is projected to triple by 2050, the new energy trust fund is expected to play a crucial role in unlocking reliable and cost-effective electricity supply, particularly through renewable sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower. ADB has also committed up to $10 billion over the next decade to support the ASEAN Power Grid and related investments, facilitating cross-border electricity trade, national grid upgrades, and renewable energy expansion. In October, ADB further reinforced its commitment by launching the ASEAN Power Grid Financing Initiative in partnership with the ASEAN Secretariat, the ASEAN Center for Energy, and the World Bank.

In addition to advancing the new energy trust fund, ADB recently reaffirmed its broader role as ASEAN’s primary development partner. Alongside energy integration, the institution is pursuing initiatives to strengthen regional capital markets, enhance AI readiness, promote the blue economy, and improve river basin resilience. Established in 2011 by ASEAN member states and ADB, the AIF continues to mobilize regional resources to bridge infrastructure gaps and deliver projects that drive economic integration and sustainable growth. Founded in 1966, ADB remains a key multilateral development bank with 69 members, 50 from the region, focused on inclusive, resilient, and sustainable development across Asia and the Pacific.

By combining AFRY’s technical capabilities with GE Vernova Hitachi Nuclear Energy’s  BWRX-300 technology and worldwide project experience, the partnership creates a framework designed to facilitate effective, repeatable, and scalable project execution of SMR deployment across numerous European initiatives. AFRY will provide core engineering services and assist in preparing a licensing application for the BWRX-300 to be submitted to the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority (SSM). This phase of the regulations pertaining to the use of SMRs in Sweden is crucial. “This agreement reflects our commitment to building a strong Swedish and European industrial ecosystem around the BWRX-300, going beyond reactor technology to enable long-term collaboration, local capability development and regional value creation,” said GVH CEO Jason Cooper.

“Through the collaboration with GE Vernova Hitachi, we aim to help position Sweden as a key hub in the future SMR value chain as well as advancing Sweden’s nuclear power programme,” said Elon Hägg, EVP and Head of Global Division Energy at AFRY. The partnership builds on earlier developments, including a March 2022 memorandum of understanding between Swedish SMR project developer Kärnfull Next and GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy regarding the deployment of the BWRX-300 in Sweden. At the policy level, the Swedish government received an application for state aid in December 2025 supporting proposals for either five GE Vernova Hitachi BWRX-300 reactors or three Rolls-Royce SMRs, aimed at delivering approximately 1,500 MW capacity at Ringhals on the Värö Peninsula. The application was submitted by Videberg Kraft AB, a project entity owned by Vattenfall AB and supported by multiple industrial stakeholders through the Industrikraft i Sverige AB consortium.

The BWRX-300 itself is a 300 MWe water-cooled, natural circulation SMR equipped with passive safety systems. It builds on the design and licensing foundation of GVH’s U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission-certified ESBWR boiling water reactor and incorporates the existing, licensed GNF2 fuel design. Construction of the first BWRX-300 is currently underway at Ontario Power Generation’s Darlington site in Canada, with completion targeted by the end of the decade. These developments collectively reinforce momentum around SMR deployment, highlighting continued progress in technology, regulation, and industrial collaboration across key markets.

The Gawler Ranges East release area spans approximately 5,200 square km on the Upper Eyre Peninsula, while the Whyalla West release area extends across around 6,500 square km in the Upper Spencer Gulf region. According to South Australia’s Department of Energy and Mining (DEM), these zones offer some of the most favorable co-incident wind and solar resources in the state. Combined, the areas are estimated to support renewable energy projects capable of generating enough power for more than 500,000 homes. The department emphasized that the tender process is technology-neutral, allowing applicants flexibility in proposing how best to maximize both land use and available renewable resources.

Guidelines for submissions require bidders to meet specific criteria, including outlining project delivery timelines, demonstrating prior experience, and presenting strong environmental management credentials. Proposals must also highlight how developments will create value for the state and for traditional custodians of the land. “Tenders must address the prescribed criteria in their application, including how they plan to deliver the content within a timeframe, their experience, environmental management credentials, and how the project will benefit the state and the traditional custodians of the land,” it said. The application window for these renewable energy projects will remain open until 28th June 2026, providing developers with sufficient time to prepare detailed bids and engage with native title holders to secure agreements.

South Australia continues to position itself as a leader in Australia’s energy transition. The state currently records an average of 75% net variable renewable energy annually and frequently achieves 100% instantaneous variable renewable energy generation, supported by extensive wind, solar, and rooftop PV deployment. With a target of reaching 100% net renewables by the end of 2027, the expansion of renewable energy projects across newly released areas is expected to play a central role in meeting this ambition.

The newly defined offshore electricity bidding zone will cover the Nederwiek 3 wind farm sites, specifically Nederwiek 3a and 3b, which will connect to TenneT’s offshore platform and, in turn, link to LionLink. This policy move was confirmed in a parliamentary letter dated March 31 from Stientje van Veldhoven-van der Meer, the Dutch Minister of Climate and Green Growth. The rationale behind creating a separate offshore market structure is to address structural congestion, aligning with EU guidance that bidding zones should not include persistent congestion. “In the case of the LionLink project, structural congestion will occur on the connection between the offshore platform and the Dutch coast. TenneT demonstrated this in a report that was approved by the Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) on 25 March 2025,” the Minister says in the letter.

At present, the Netherlands operates under a single bidding zone, but the new offshore electricity bidding zone will function independently, with its own pricing mechanism. According to the Minister’s letter, the absence of direct electricity demand within this zone is expected to result in a lower average electricity price on an annual basis compared to the existing Dutch bidding zone. Consequently, wind farms developed in the Nederwiek 3 area may see comparatively reduced revenues. Despite this, the broader LionLink project, alongside the creation of the offshore electricity bidding zone, is projected to deliver significant societal benefits. These include generating revenue for TenneT that could help reduce grid tariffs and enhance electricity supply security. Additionally, combining the interconnector with the offshore wind export cable into a single landing point is expected to ease pressure on limited landing space while lowering investment costs.

The Minister also highlighted that financial support mechanisms may be considered for Nederwiek 3 offshore wind farms, acknowledging the potential impact of lower revenues. This possibility has been welcomed by the Dutch wind energy trade association NedZero. While emphasizing the importance of price certainty under current market conditions, the Minister noted that any subsidies would depend on future variables such as electricity demand, pricing trends, and production costs. Funding would be sourced from the offshore wind reserve outlined in the coalition agreement, although this could introduce constraints on rollout timelines. Prior to the tender process, the Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency (PBL) will provide guidance on the maximum bid to help determine the required budget. A revised offshore wind roadmap is expected before the end of the year, detailing progress toward national targets.

A Shifting Geopolitical and Environmental Imperative

The events of recent years following the 2022 gas supply crisis and the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, have served as a stark awakening for many nations. The vulnerability inherent in over-reliance on external energy sources, especially fossil fuels subject to price volatility and geopolitical leverage, became glaringly apparent. For countries accustomed to stable and affordable energy, the sudden spike in prices and the threat of supply interruptions underscored a critical weakness in their national infrastructures. It is within this context that the narrative around nuclear energy has dramatically shifted. What was once seen by some as an expensive, politically charged, and potentially hazardous option, is now increasingly viewed as a robust, indigenous, and reliable source of clean baseload power, a veritable shield against market fluctuations and geopolitical pressures.

European Pivot From Phase-Outs to Renewed Commitments

Europe, in particular, has witnessed a remarkable recalibration of its Europe nuclear policy. For years, some of its most influential members, notably Germany, were steadfast in their commitment to phasing out nuclear power, driven by public sentiment and environmental concerns. However, the recent energy crisis compelled a profound re-evaluation. While Germany’s nuclear phase-out largely proceeded as planned, the broader European sentiment has undeniably pivoted.

France’s Strategic Reassertion

France, a long-standing advocate for nuclear energy, has reasserted its commitment with renewed vigor. President Macron announced plans for the construction of at least six new generation EPR reactors, with an option for eight more, alongside extending the lifespan of existing plants. This strategic decision is a testament to nuclear power’s pivotal role in France’s energy independence and its ambitious decarbonization goals. It exemplifies a nation leveraging its historical expertise to secure its future energy supply.

The Nordic and Central European Embrace

Beyond France, other European nations are also either extending the operational lives of their existing fleets or embarking on new reactor construction projects. Finland, with its Olkiluoto 3 reactor now operational, stands as a testament to the continent’s commitment. Sweden, once contemplating a nuclear phase-out, is now exploring options for new reactors, recognizing the irreplaceable role of nuclear power in its low-carbon power mix. Countries like Poland and the Czech Republic, acutely aware of their historical reliance on coal and gas imports, are actively pursuing substantial nuclear build programs. They see nuclear energy not just as a means to reduce emissions but as a cornerstone of their national energy security strategies, providing a stable foundation for their economic growth and industrial competitiveness. The UK, post-Brexit, has similarly outlined ambitious plans for new nuclear plants, viewing them as essential for both energy independence and achieving its net-zero targets. This widespread reconsideration marks a pivotal moment, affirming the strategic necessity of a diversified and resilient energy portfolio across the continent.

Asia’s Unwavering and Accelerating Ambition

While Europe’s shift represents a notable reversal for some, Asia’s approach to nuclear energy has largely been one of sustained, and often accelerating, ambition. Many Asian nations, facing rapidly expanding populations and burgeoning industrial bases, have long recognized nuclear power as a pragmatic solution to meet surging electricity demand while simultaneously addressing environmental concerns. The nuclear comeback in Europe and Asia is, in many ways, an acceleration of an already established trajectory in the East.

China and India Powering Economic Growth

China, for instance, is one of the global leaders in reactor construction, with numerous new plants coming online annually and many more in various stages of development. Its rationale is straightforward – to power its immense economic growth, uplift its citizens, and dramatically reduce its reliance on coal, thereby tackling severe air pollution and contributing to global climate goals. India, another economic powerhouse, is following a similar path, steadily expanding its nuclear fleet to meet its vast energy requirements and enhance its energy security posture. These nations view nuclear energy as an indispensable component of their long-term energy strategies, offering both scale and reliability.

Japan and South Korea Reassessing and Re-engaging Nuclear Energy

Even Japan, which experienced the devastating Fukushima accident in 2011 and subsequently idled much of its nuclear fleet, is now cautiously but steadily moving towards restarting more reactors. The imperative of energy security in an import-dependent nation, coupled with global decarbonization pressures, has forced a pragmatic re-evaluation. South Korea, too, under new leadership, has reversed previous plans for a nuclear phase-out, choosing instead to invest in expanding its domestic nuclear industry and resuming reactor construction. For these advanced industrial economies, the consistent, clean baseload power offered by nuclear power is critical for maintaining industrial competitiveness and grid stability. This collective movement in Asia underscores a strategic foresight: diversifying away from volatile fossil fuel markets is not just an option, but a national imperative.

The Core Drivers of Nuclear Comeback

While the contribution of nuclear energy to low-carbon power generation is undeniable and increasingly vital for meeting climate targets, the primary driver behind the current nuclear comeback in Europe and Asia extends beyond environmental concerns. It is intrinsically linked to the concept of resilience and sovereignty in energy supply.

Fortifying National Grids Against Volatility

The ability to generate electricity reliably, independently, and affordably, irrespective of international market fluctuations or geopolitical machinations, has become a top priority. Nuclear power plants, once built, operate for decades, producing electricity without relying on continuous fuel imports from potentially unstable regions. Their high capacity factors mean they run almost constantly, providing the stable, clean baseload power that industrial economies depend on. This inherent stability and predictability are invaluable assets in a world characterized by increasing uncertainty. The 2022 gas supply crisis and the ongoing oil crisis due to the conflicts in the Middle East are examples of the economic and social havoc that can be wrought by unstable energy supplies. Consequently, Europe’s nuclear policy and analogous strategies in Asia are now heavily weighted towards options that reduce external dependencies and bolster domestic energy production capabilities, positioning nuclear energy as a cornerstone of true energy security.

Beyond the immediate crisis, the long-term vision also plays a crucial role. As renewable energy sources like solar and wind expand, the need for robust baseload power that can operate irrespective of weather conditions becomes even more critical. Nuclear power complements renewables perfectly, providing the necessary stability and reliability to balance intermittent generation and ensure grid integrity. This synergistic relationship strengthens the overall low-carbon power ecosystem, making the transition away from fossil fuels more feasible and less disruptive.

Challenges and Opportunities of the Nuclear Comeback

While the nuclear comeback in Europe and Asia is robust, it is not without its challenges. High upfront capital costs, lengthy construction timelines, and public perception concerns, particularly regarding safety and waste management, remain significant hurdles. The industry is actively addressing these through technological advancements, regulatory harmonization, and enhanced communication strategies.

The advent of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and advanced reactor designs, for instance, offers the promise of lower capital costs, shorter construction times, and enhanced safety features, potentially making nuclear power more accessible and acceptable. These innovations are critical for sustaining the momentum of reactor construction and ensuring that nuclear energy remains competitive in the evolving energy mix. Furthermore, proactive engagement with communities and transparent communication about safety protocols and waste disposal solutions are essential to build and maintain public trust. As the world gains further experience with these advanced designs, and as the urgency of energy security and climate action intensifies, public opinion may continue to shift in favor of nuclear energy as a pragmatic and responsible choice. The ongoing discussions and policy shifts within Europe nuclear policy reflect this continuous balancing act between public acceptance, economic viability, and strategic necessity.

The Enduring Significance of Nuclear Power

The narrative of nuclear power has always been one of immense potential and complex challenges. Yet, the current global climate, marked by an unprecedented confluence of climate imperatives, geopolitical tensions, and economic pressures, has undeniably thrust nuclear energy back into the spotlight as an indispensable solution. The nuclear comeback in Europe and Asia, driven by an acute awareness of energy security, the need for low-carbon power, and the inherent reliability of clean baseload power, is more than a fleeting trend. Power Gen Advancement believes this trend represents a fundamental re-evaluation of energy priorities, a strategic investment in long-term resilience, and a testament to nuclear power’s enduring capacity to shape a more stable and sustainable future for nations across the globe. As reactor construction picks up pace and new policies solidify, nuclear power is firmly establishing itself as a pivotal pillar in the global energy transition, proving its critical role in navigating the uncertainties of the 21st century.