Thu Sep 19 08:22:00 UTC 2024: ## Europe’s Reliance on Russian Nuclear Industry Limits Sanctions, Report Warns

**London, UK** – A new report has highlighted the significant interdependence between the Russian and Western nuclear industries, suggesting it has hindered efforts to impose further sanctions on the sector following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The **World Nuclear Industry Status Report**, authored by energy consultants Mycle Schneider and Antony Froggatt, reveals that Western nations still rely heavily on Russian nuclear power, particularly in the supply of fuel and technology.

While some European countries have sought alternative fuel sources, the report notes that stockpiling of Russian fuel last year led to increased imports, demonstrating the continued reliance.

Furthermore, Western companies, including sections of the French state power company EDF, are dependent on Russian-built reactors around the world for parts and technology.

The report emphasizes that this interdependency is a key factor in Europe’s reluctance to impose sanctions on the Russian nuclear sector. Efforts to reduce or eliminate dependence on Russia for uranium, conversion, and enrichment services are likely to increase costs significantly.

Despite these challenges, the report also notes that global nuclear power generation saw a 2.2% increase last year.

In the UK, the new Labour government remains committed to the planned Sizewell C nuclear power station and is also reviewing plans for another major plant in North Wales. However, concerns about energy security in the face of Russia’s aggression are driving efforts to develop alternative fuel sources, including High-Assay Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU), currently only commercially produced by Russia.

The UK is also investing in smaller modular reactors (SMRs), which are seen as a potential solution to the challenges posed by traditional large nuclear plants.

Meanwhile, a separate report by the International Energy Agency (IEA) warns that Ukraine faces a significant power supply shortfall this winter due to Russian attacks on energy infrastructure. The IEA estimates a shortfall of about a third of peak demand, which could result in rolling blackouts and limited electricity supply in certain regions.

The UK government has stressed its commitment to energy independence, seeking to avoid future vulnerabilities to hostile actors.

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