Nuclear energy will play a key role in the long term

9/17/26, 8:27 AM
Demand for safe, reliable, and low-carbon nuclear energy is growing worldwide, said the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Speaking in Vienna on 14 September at the opening of the 70th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Mariano Grossi addressed the future of nuclear energy. He highlighted that nuclear power not only contributes to energy security but also acts as an important driver of science, innovation, and economic development. Therefore, in the long term, it will play a decisive role in building a sustainable future. The Director General emphasized that nuclear safety and the international safeguards system remain at the core of the IAEA’s activities.

 
In her address, the head of the Hungarian delegation, Andrea Beatrix Kádár, President of the Hungarian Atomic Energy Authority (HAEA), praised the IAEA’s efforts to ensure nuclear safety worldwide. She highlighted the importance of international cooperation on issues such as lifetime extension of nuclear power plants, the licensing of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and ensuring of cooling water supply
The conference organized within the framework of the IAEA General Conference attracted approximately 4,000 participants representing more than 180 countries. The General Conference also provides an opportunity for stakeholders in the nuclear industry to hold bilateral and multilateral meetings, further strengthening international cooperation in the nuclear sector.
"This is a global showcase of the nuclear industry, bringing together representatives of all countries involved in peaceful nuclear projects. These may include operating nuclear power plants as well as companies providing services related to construction, operation, or maintenance. As the Chief Executive Officer of Paks II. Ltd., I consider this an excellent opportunity to meet people and companies that could be relevant to our organization," said Attila Ságodi, CEO of Paks II. Ltd., during a break in the conference.

 
"There is a growing global demand for electricity, particularly for electricity generated without greenhouse gas emissions. This includes renewable energy sources, however, because they are highly dependent on weather conditions, almost every country considers it very important to have a carbon-free power plant that operate stably. Nuclear energy is currently one of the best solutions for this," the CEO summarized.