EU Focuses on Nuclear And Fusion Research: Euratom Work Programme 2026-2027 Launched with Focus on SMR Strategy

Brussels (Belgium) - Following the classification of reducing the share of nuclear energy in Europe as a strategic mistake by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at the Nuclear Energy Summit in Paris, the European Commission is now placing nuclear technologies at the center of its funding priorities.

With the new Euratom Work Programme for Research and Training 2026–2027, the EU aims to strengthen its energy independence, competitiveness, and technological leadership in the nuclear sector.

The programme complements Horizon Europe, the EU’s central research and innovation programme, while supporting the Union’s long-term climate goals by promoting nuclear energy as a low-carbon technology. Nuclear energy is expected to contribute, alongside renewables, to enhancing energy security. The programme also supports the EU’s Small Modular Reactor (SMR) strategy.

A key focus is the promotion of fusion energy. According to the Commission, €222 million will be allocated to “bridging fusion energy from laboratories to the grid.” Plans include establishing a European public-private partnership (PPP) for fusion energy and supporting emerging fusion start-ups through the European Innovation Council.

Nuclear fission will also be strengthened: €108 million is planned for safe waste management, radiation protection, innovations in nuclear materials, and the safety of both existing and new nuclear power plants. In addition, the programme promotes nuclear medicine and the EU’s autonomy in supplying isotopes for new therapies.

Another priority is the development of nuclear talent, both in fusion energy and across the nuclear sector. This will be supported through Marie Skłodowska-Curie fellowships, open access to over 230 research facilities in the EU, and the integration of Ukrainian nuclear researchers into the European Research Area.

Through the Euratom programme, the EU aims to advance its strategies for carbon neutrality and clean industry, its small modular reactor (SMR) strategy, and its long-term fusion strategy. President von der Leyen presented these priorities at the Nuclear Energy Summit on 10 March in Paris.

Source: IWR Online, 23 Mar 2026