Engaging Local Communities: Key to Success for Nuclear Power Projects, Say Experts at IAEA Conference

Grossi announced that the IAEA will hold the first International Conference on Stakeholder Engagement for Nuclear Power Programmes in May 2025.

Open dialogue and transparent communication are critical to securing the support of local communities for hosting nuclear power projects, from reactors to research facilities and spent fuel repositories, according to experts at a side event during the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) General Conference. IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi emphasized the importance of community backing for the global growth of nuclear energy, urging for more “yes in my backyard” attitudes.

The event highlighted how host communities are vital participants in the success of nuclear projects and the global energy transition. Grossi announced that the IAEA will hold the first International Conference on Stakeholder Engagement for Nuclear Power Programmes in May 2025. This conference will convene a broad range of stakeholders, including policymakers, regulators, community leaders, and industry representatives, to discuss best practices for engaging communities in nuclear energy development.

During the side event, speakers from several countries shared successful examples of community engagement. In Canada, the town of Ignace expressed willingness to host a deep geological repository (DGR) for spent nuclear fuel after 14 years of dialogue with Canada’s Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO). This example of open communication was key to addressing local concerns and gaining 77% support from participating residents.

In the United States, Idaho Falls, home to the Idaho National Laboratory (INL), demonstrates the importance of long-term community involvement. Local officials like Mayor Rebecca Casper view their roles as essential partners in the development of nuclear facilities. As advanced reactors are set to be tested at INL, ongoing engagement ensures the community's needs are addressed throughout the project’s lifecycle.

In Hungary, municipalities near the Paks Nuclear Power Plant collaborated with the government and plant operators to open a bridge connecting both sides of the river, improving job access and services for the community. Similarly, in Argentina, the town of Lima grew into a city alongside the Atucha nuclear power plant. While nuclear projects brought economic benefits, local leaders like Zarate Mayor Marcelo Matzkin highlighted the need for infrastructure development to keep pace with population growth.

Speakers also addressed the complexities of community consent for nuclear power plants, especially in post-Fukushima Japan. Masahiro Sakurai, Mayor of Kashiwazaki, home to the country’s largest nuclear plant, stressed the importance of securing local consent before restarting reactors, even after extensive safety reviews.

Panelists agreed that the success of nuclear energy projects depends on maintaining trust and dialogue with host communities. "Talking with the community about all kinds of nuclear facilities is very important," said German Guido Lavalle, President of Argentina’s National Atomic Energy Commission.