The nuclear power industry stands at a pivotal moment. As global demand for clean and reliable energy intensifies, so too does the need for innovation and collaboration in the sector. The International Energy Agency (IEA) forecasts a record-breaking year for nuclear electricity generation in 2025, contributing 10% of global electricity supply. Moreover, with over 70 GW of new nuclear capacity under construction worldwide – a level unseen in three decades – and more than 40 nations actively pursuing expanded nuclear energy programmes, the stage is set for significant expansion.
Against this backdrop, the launch of Nuclear Power Expo at Piacenza Expo in Italy represents a significant new opportunity for industry professionals, policymakers, and technology providers to come together and shape the future of the industry. Taking place 21st to 23rd May 2025, the event promises a vital forum for knowledge exchange, strategic networking, and the unveiling of cutting-edge advancements, ranging from next-generation reactor technologies to essential cybersecurity solutions.
Italy’s nuclear legacy reimagined
Why launch a new nuclear power exhibition in Italy, a country without operational nuclear power plants? The answer lies in Italy’s rich and enduring legacy in the atomic sector, dating back to the 1960s. Companies such as Ansaldo Nucleare and ATB Riva Calzoni have been trailblazers in the field, and Italy remains a key player in the global nuclear landscape, particularly within the European Industrial Alliance on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), where it ranks second in terms of the number of participating companies, just behind France.
Italy’s influence also extends to international projects such as the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), where the country is the second-largest supplier, again after France. With this experience, Italy’s highly specialised supply chain, including pumps, turbines, actuators, and other critical components, reinforces the country’s position as one of the world’s leading exporters of nuclear technology. For international buyers, Italy offers an invaluable platform for sourcing high-quality components.
Additionally, the Italian government’s recent initiative to explore the revival of its nuclear energy programme, beginning in January 2025, could serve as a game-changer for the burgeoning European SMR industry, signalling a potential turning point that aligns with the region’s increasing focus on nuclear innovation.
Strong endorsement from nuclear associations
Fabio Potestà, director of Mediapoint & Exhibitions, the event’s organiser, emphasises: “Italy’s deep-rooted expertise and strategic position within the global nuclear supply chain make it an attractive host for this event and we are honoured by the industry’s strong support. We look forward to creating a collaborative environment where innovation and partnerships can thrive.”
The Nuclear Power Expo has already secured sponsorship from key industry associations, including ENEA (Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development), AIN (Italian Nuclear Association), CIRTEN (Italian University Nuclear Research Body), ANIMP (Italian Association of Industrial Plant Engineering), AIPE (Italian Association of Pressure Equipment), and H2IT (Italian Hydrogen Association).
Comprehensive showcase from reactors to waste management
Nuclear Power Expo will present a wide spectrum of cutting-edge products spanning the entire nuclear energy ecosystem, from materials and components, reactors, and fuel management systems, through maintenance and waste treatment, to decommissioning. It will also highlight non-energy applications such as medical radiology and nuclear propulsion. Furthermore, beyond technological solutions, the event will provide a platform for service companies, government bodies, and trade associations, offering insights into the regulatory and administrative landscape.
Addressing industry challenges and forging solutions
In the auditorium, Nuclear Power Expo will also feature a comprehensive conference programme tackling the most pressing challenges facing the nuclear sector today. Topics will range from evolving regulatory frameworks and supply chain security, to operational efficiency and shifting public perceptions. While the full schedule is yet to be released, participants can look forward to engaging panel discussions, technical workshops, and expert insights on how nuclear power can drive a low-carbon future and advance energy independence through a European nuclear renaissance.
Securing the future of nuclear energy through cybersecurity
As the nuclear sector evolves, so too does the threat landscape, with cybersecurity emerging as a critical issue. Organisations worldwide are now facing an average of 1,673 cyberattacks per week — a staggering 44% increase from 2023 – with the energy infrastructure being a prime target. Given nuclear energy’s impact on national security, potential breaches of operational technology (OT) systems are particularly concerning.
In response, Nuclear Power Expo will be co-located with the second edition of CYBSEC-EXPO, a specialised cybersecurity conference and exhibition, offering participants the latest strategies and technologies to safeguard nuclear infrastructure in an age of escalating threats.
Promoting cross-industry collaboration towards net zero
Further synergies will be achieved through the co-location of Nuclear Power Expo and CYBSEC-EXPO with a third event – HydrogEn Expo – with the aim of fostering cross-industry collaboration to meet global energy demands with a more sustainable and resilient energy mix. Networking opportunities will also abound, with an exclusive gala dinner on Thursday 22nd May, offering participants of both Nuclear Power Expo and CYBSEC-EXPO a chance to make new connections in a convivial setting, laying the foundations for future partnerships.
“Nuclear energy is experiencing a renaissance, driven by the need for clean and stable power,” Fabio Potestà concludes. “Nuclear Power Expo will serve as a dynamic platform for the industry to converge, share expertise, and forge the partnerships necessary to drive innovation and investment. We are looking forward to welcoming participants to Piacenza Expo this May for this first event, which we hope will become a firm fixture in the industry calendar.”
For further information and to secure your free visitor pass, please visit nuclearpower-expo.it.
