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Europe made a mistake by moving away from nuclear power, IEA's Birol says
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Europe made a mistake by moving away from nuclear power, IEA's Birol says

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on May 7, 2026

1 min read

· Last updated: May 7, 2026

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IEA's Birol: Europe Should Not Have Transitioned Away from Nuclear Power

IEA Chief Criticizes Europe’s Shift from Nuclear Energy

Conference Remarks in Toronto

TORONTO, May 7 (Reuters) - Europe made a mistake when it transitioned away from nuclear power, Fatih Birol, head of the International Energy Agency, said on Thursday at a conference in Toronto, Canada.

Context: Rising Energy Prices

His comments come as energy prices are surging amid the Iran war and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key trade route. Brent oil futures were trading above $101 a barrel on Thursday. 

Reporting and Editorial Credits

(Reporting by Wa Lone in Toronto, Canada; Writing by Liz Hampton; Editing by Chris Reese)

Key Takeaways

  • Birol criticises Europe’s move away from nuclear as a strategic mistake, reducing low‑carbon, dispatchable power capacity.
  • The Iran war and virtual closure of the Strait of Hormuz have triggered the most severe energy security crisis ever, pushing up oil, gas, electricity and jet fuel prices.
  • Europe’s energy vulnerability could have been mitigated with nuclear; other leaders like von der Leyen echo similar regrets over nuclear phase‑out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who commented on Europe's transition away from nuclear power?
Fatih Birol, head of the International Energy Agency, commented on Europe's move away from nuclear power.
What global event is impacting energy prices in Europe?
The Iran war and closure of the Strait of Hormuz are contributing to rising energy prices in Europe.
Where did Fatih Birol make his comments about nuclear power?
Fatih Birol made his comments at a conference in Toronto, Canada.

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