Denmark is taking significant steps toward potentially ending its four-decade ban on nuclear power, with the government now actively investigating the deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs). The Climate, Energy and Utilities Ministry announced on Thursday that a formal framework has been established to assess the “potentials and risks” of modern nuclear technologies, including the possible lifting of the 1985 moratorium that prohibited nuclear energy production in the country.

Climate, Energy and Utilities Minister Lars Aagaard emphasized that while renewable sources like wind and solar remain the cornerstone of Denmark’s green energy strategy, they cannot meet future demands on their own. “Green energy from solar and wind is now and will continue to be the backbone of the Danish energy supply, but we can also see that it cannot stand alone,” he stated. He highlighted small modular nuclear reactors as a promising option for providing stable, low-carbon energy in the years ahead.

Small modular reactors are compact, factory-built nuclear units with a capacity of up to 300 megawatts per module—roughly one-third the size of traditional large-scale reactors. Proponents argue that SMRs offer advantages in cost, construction speed, safety features, and scalability, making them suitable for countries with high renewable penetration like Denmark. The ministry plans to gather detailed information on regulatory requirements, safety standards, radioactive waste management, required expertise, and overall economics before any political decision is made.

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The shift in policy follows a key parliamentary vote in early 2025, when lawmakers agreed to examine emerging nuclear technologies as a potential future energy source. Denmark has long relied heavily on renewables, with wind power generating 58% of its electricity in 2024, followed by biofuels at 18%, solar at 11%, and smaller contributions from waste and coal, according to International Energy Agency data. The country has achieved one of the world’s highest shares of variable renewable energy but faces challenges with grid stability and periods of low wind and solar output.

This development marks a notable evolution in Denmark’s energy policy, reflecting growing European interest in nuclear power as a complement to renewables amid climate goals and energy security concerns. Any move to lift the ban and build SMRs would require broad political support and extensive public consultation.

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