The European Union’s tentative plan to delay classifying H₂ produced from nuclear energy as a "low-carbon" fuel until 2028 has triggered strong criticism from Europe’s nuclear sector. Industry leaders warn the proposed timeline risks undermining the development of nuclear-based H₂ and creating a skewed energy market.

As part of its push to build a robust market for H₂ as a green energy source, the European Commission is drafting new rules to define which types of H₂ can be officially labeled as “low-carbon.” A draft of these rules, obtained by Reuters, reveals that the Commission plans to wait until July 2028 before deciding whether H₂ produced using nuclear energy—specifically via power purchase agreements with nuclear plants—qualifies under this designation.

Consultations on the nuclear aspect of the policy are expected to begin by June 2026.

The nuclear sector has expressed alarm at the three-year delay. Emmanuel Brutin, Director General of the advocacy group Nuclear Europe, warned that the timeline could cripple the competitiveness of nuclear-based H₂.

Critics argue that this delay effectively kneecaps nuclear H₂ in its formative years, while H₂ produced from renewables like wind and solar already benefits from clear EU rules established in 2023.

Ongoing political divisions over nuclear energy. The delay reflects deeper political divisions within the EU regarding nuclear power’s role in the green transition. Pro-nuclear states such as France, Poland, and Sweden advocate for greater inclusion of nuclear in EU green strategies, pointing to its zero CO₂ emissions and its ability to provide stable, weather-independent electricity.

Conversely, countries like Germany and Denmark remain skeptical. They argue that incorporating nuclear into green policy frameworks could undermine momentum for expanding truly renewable sources, such as solar and wind, which are central to achieving the EU’s climate goals.

Currently, most H₂ consumed in Europe is produced from fossil fuels. The EU’s long-term objective is to transition towards H₂ made using emissions-free energy, whether from renewables or nuclear. However, without clear and timely classifications, stakeholders fear that investment and innovation in nuclear-generated H₂ could stall.

EU experts are set to discuss the draft proposal further this Thursday. A European Commission spokesperson declined to comment directly on the draft but reiterated the institution’s goal:

Until a final agreement is reached, the future of nuclear’s role in the EU’s H₂ economy remains uncertain—and fiercely contested.

Source: Reuters

For the original story, visit: https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/climate-energy/eu-riles-nuclear-industry-with-delay-low-carbon-hydrogen-rules-2025-05-13/