By Minener Editorial Team | May 6, 2025
COPENHAGEN — In a landmark policy shift, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has confirmed her government’s openness to rethinking Denmark’s long-standing ban on nuclear energy. The announcement aligns with growing political momentum from the governing Moderates and Liberals, who are reportedly ready to initiate formal discussions to lift the ban.
Denmark, historically a global symbol of anti-nuclear sentiment, now joins a wave of European countries reevaluating nuclear power amid rising energy demands, decarbonization goals, and geopolitical uncertainty driven by the war in Ukraine and supply disruptions from fossil-fuel-exporting nations.
Political Realignment on Energy
The Social Democrats, led by Frederiksen, have traditionally opposed nuclear energy, championing wind, solar, and green hydrogen. However, the political landscape is shifting. According to Danish parliamentary sources, cross-party support is forming around exploring nuclear technologies—particularly small modular reactors (SMRs), seen as safer, scalable, and cost-effective alternatives to traditional nuclear plants.
“We have to be realistic about the challenges of energy supply and climate change. No option should be dismissed prematurely,” Frederiksen stated during a press briefing in Copenhagen.
Denmark’s Energy Profile and the Case for Nuclear
Despite being a pioneer in wind energy—wind accounted for over 55% of Denmark’s electricity generation in 2024—Danish grid operators face stability concerns during peak loads and periods of low wind. Storage technologies and international interconnections help, but are not yet sufficient to meet growing demand, especially as Denmark pushes for full electrification of transport and industry.
Nuclear energy, with its consistent baseload output and low carbon emissions, is increasingly viewed as a complement to renewables. The introduction of nuclear could reduce Denmark’s reliance on imported electricity from fossil-fuel-based sources and enhance energy sovereignty.
Expert Reactions and Public Opinion
Dr. Lise Thomsen, an energy policy analyst at the University of Copenhagen, commented: “This is a major turning point. For decades, nuclear was politically toxic in Denmark. The current debate reflects the urgency of the climate crisis and the reality that 100% renewables without nuclear is a steep challenge.”
Public sentiment, however, remains mixed. A recent YouGov survey shows 48% of Danes support reconsidering nuclear energy, while 39% remain opposed and 13% are undecided. Environmental groups have warned against abandoning Denmark’s historic stance, arguing for more investment in long-duration storage and decentralized grids instead.
Global and Regional Implications
Denmark’s move echoes broader global trends. The European Union’s taxonomy now classifies nuclear as a “green” investment, and countries such as France, Poland, and the Netherlands are actively expanding nuclear portfolios. Even Latin America is revisiting its nuclear stance, with Brazil planning expansions to Angra reactors and Argentina advancing modular reactor projects through INVAP and global partnerships.
Denmark’s entry into nuclear energy development could foster Nordic cooperation on shared research, SMR deployment, and grid resilience, offering a model for emerging economies balancing decarbonization with development.
What’s Next?
While no formal bill has been introduced yet, insiders suggest that a feasibility study into nuclear power could be commissioned before the end of 2025. This may include assessments of safety regulations, reactor technologies, waste disposal strategies, and integration with the Nordic power grid.
Furthermore, Danish firms such as Orsted and Topsoe may explore collaborations with international nuclear developers, positioning the country as both a consumer and innovator in advanced clean technologies.
Conclusion: A New Danish Energy Era?
Denmark’s openness to nuclear energy marks a historic shift in one of the world’s greenest countries. If it follows through, it may reshape Europe’s energy map and further legitimize nuclear as a key component of a decarbonized future. For energy producers, investors, and regulators worldwide, Denmark’s decision could be a signal of the next phase in the global energy transition.