Denmark reconsiders nuclear power ban after 40 years

Denmark is reviewing its decades-old ban on nuclear energy, Denmark reconsiders Nuclear Power Ban After 40 Yearswith the government set to analyze the potential role of new-generation modular nuclear reactors, Energy Minister Lars Aagaard announced.

The move marks a shift in policy for one of Europe’s most renewables-focused countries. Over 80% of Denmark’s electricity currently comes from wind, biofuels, and solar power, according to the International Energy Agency.

Aagaard said the government would examine the societal impact of enabling small modular reactors (SMRs), which are gaining traction in Europe for offering faster construction and lower costs than traditional reactors.

The renewed interest in nuclear comes as Europe faces rising demand for low-carbon electricity. Countries like France, Belgium, and the UK are extending the life of existing plants, while Spain is reconsidering its nuclear phase-out. Germany’s own 2022 exit from nuclear has come under fresh scrutiny due to energy security concerns following the halt in Russian gas imports.

Denmark’s former Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen also backed the move, calling the ban “ridiculous” and urging a rethink to ensure stable non-fossil energy alongside renewables.

Globally, tech firms like Google have shown interest in SMRs to power data centers. In Denmark, national energy giant Ørsted has recently struggled with rising costs and last week scrapped plans for a major offshore windfarm in the UK, citing economic concerns.

Copied