Nuclear energy in transition: Trends, digital transformation, and the road ahead
How digitalisation and AI are shaping the future of nuclear power across Europe
Europe’s nuclear energy sector stands at a pivotal crossroads. As the demand for low-carbon electricity rises and the drive for energy sovereignty intensifies, nuclear is experiencing a renaissance - characterised not only by ambitious new builds, but also by sweeping digital transformation, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), and a renewed focus on talent and safety. Insights and practical examples from across the continent illustrate this dynamic evolution.
Modernising nuclear: The sector at a glance
Long regarded as a backbone of Europe’s energy mix, nuclear power is being reimagined for the 21st century. Historic fleets are undergoing modernisation and life extension, new reactor technologies are emerging, and innovative approaches are being adopted to maintain safety, efficiency, and competitiveness. Examples like the Hinkley Point C new build in the UK, as well as growing interest in Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in countries such as France, reflect this wider European momentum.
Nuclear energy is a fascinating and incredibly powerful technology that deserves to be mastered. It holds tremendous long-term potential in terms of resources and opportunities.
– Jean-Pierre BUREL , President of the Alpine Regional Group of the Sfen - Société française d'énergie nucléaire , during one of ALTEN's latest Tech A Seat sessions: "Nuclear Power: The Energy of Tomorrow?" (FR).
Digitalisation and Artificial Intelligence: Transforming operations
Digital transformation is now central to the sector’s future, not simply as an efficiency driver but as a foundation for safety and performance. The adoption of digital twins, advanced monitoring systems, and predictive analytics is enabling operators to anticipate issues, optimise maintenance, and reduce downtime. With sensors and real-time data collection, everything from reactor core management to supply chain logistics can be modelled and refined on virtual platforms, limiting risks and lowering operational costs.
But with greater connectivity comes new challenges. The convergence of operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) opens up critical infrastructure to cyber threats, requiring robust cybersecurity strategies and a culture of vigilance at every level. Enhanced digital oversight, secure-by-design systems, and sovereign data management are increasingly standard, rather than aspirational.
I’m particularly interested in how detailed solutions, for example, high fidelity digital twins, AI, edge computing and predictive maintenance and all of these solutions are shaping the way nuclear facilities are operated.
– Jins Tom Arambankudy , Global Solution Manager at Worldgrid (an ALTEN company).
AI: From promise to pragmatism
Artificial intelligence is being woven into the fabric of Europe’s nuclear sector, carefully and with clear-eyed pragmatism. AI-driven tools support everything from preventive maintenance and anomaly detection to knowledge management and project coordination. For example, during major maintenance shutdowns, AI-powered agents can sift through documentation, regulatory databases, and operational histories to provide tailored daily briefings for field teams.
Importantly, the emphasis is on transparent, explainable AI. Black-box algorithms are largely shunned in favour of systems that prioritise safety, traceability, and regulatory compliance. The sector is keen to harness AI’s power to retain hard-won expertise and accelerate the transfer of knowledge from seasoned professionals to up-and-coming engineers, a crucial task as demographics shift.
It is quite a fascinating sector due to the technical complexity, the diversity of professions we encounter, and the sheer scale of the projects we work on.
– Matthieu Millot , Energy Projects Director at ALTEN .
Challenges: Regulation, talent, and trust
Every innovation is measured against a demanding backdrop of regulation, public scrutiny, and the need to maintain robust safety records. The sector faces a dual challenge: bridging the talent gap as experienced staff retire, and ensuring the next generation is equipped with both technical and digital skills. Initiatives across Europe are focusing on cross-generational mentoring, immersive training with digital simulation, and structured knowledge repositories.
Public trust remains a cornerstone of the industry’s social licence to operate. Transparent communication about advances in safety, the environmental benefits of nuclear, and collaborative responses to challenges are essential to maintaining confidence and momentum.
Small Modular Reactors and Advanced Modular Reactors: The next chapter
The emergence of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs) is poised to redefine the nuclear energy landscape, bringing new levels of flexibility and scalability that extend well beyond traditional grid applications. SMRs present a modular, secure pathway for renewing national nuclear fleets and can be implemented in remote areas or tailored for industrial heat, while AMRs are unlocking the potential for producing low-carbon industrial heat—an increasingly vital asset for energy-intensive sectors seeking competitive advantage.
As Europe considers the deployment of these innovative reactors, the journey forward will be shaped by technological progress, harmonised regulatory frameworks, financial investment, and the development of a skilled workforce capable of delivering pioneering projects. These advancements not only fuel optimism but also raise important strategic questions for the continent’s energy future.
ALTEN, Worldgrid, and Anotech: The rise of an energy leader
ALTEN, working in close collaboration with Worldgrid and Anotech, is demonstrating a truly holistic and integrated approach to engineering and digital transformation within the nuclear sector. This powerful triumvirate covers the entire energy value chain—from Nuclear New Build through to intelligent, smart distribution—offering an end-to-end capability supported by strategic industry partnerships.
What sets this collaboration apart is the fusion of deep domain expertise across digital integration and operational support. We're seeing innovations emerge that are setting new benchmarks for the industry. These include the deployment of sovereign, on-premise AI solutions specifically engineered for highly critical environments, alongside the deployment of agile, cross-disciplinary engineering teams.
This commitment to robust R&D, talent cultivation, and digital advancement means that ALTEN and its partners aren't just helping clients navigate today's complex regulatory and operational hurdles; they are actively equipping the sector to seize the significant opportunities that tomorrow’s energy landscape promises.
Insights from World Nuclear Exhibition 2025
The industry’s collective focus on digital transformation and strategic growth took centre stage at the World Nuclear Exhibition ( WNE 2025 ) in Paris, the foremost global gathering for civil nuclear stakeholders.
From 4–6 November 2025, the exhibition provided an essential platform for exchanging ideas, debating pressing sector challenges, and unveiling the solutions that will define the future energy landscape. ALTEN showcased its unified strength alongside specialised entities Worldgrid and Anotech , actively engaging with leading technology pioneers and policymakers.
Our unified teams were focused on sharing our vision for end-to-end engineering and digital integration—a necessity for the sector’s modernisation. We explored transformative innovations, from the application of high-reliability AI in critical environments to new methodologies for Nuclear New Build. The event allowed us to forge connections and gather critical insights that promise to shape the trajectory of European nuclear energy in the months and years ahead.
Looking ahead: Nuclear’s dynamic future
Nuclear energy worldwide is evolving—balancing the rigour of tradition with the promise of digital transformation and innovation. As new technologies and talented professionals redefine what’s possible, collaboration and transparent communication will remain key to navigating the sector’s complex and promising road ahead.
The nuclear industry is entering a phase of renaissance, and ALTEN is a key player in this transformation. Our mission is to combine engineering rigour, digital innovation, and operational excellence to support our partners in this transformation. Thanks to the synergy of our expertise, data analysis, and predictive approaches, we are helping to make the industry safer, more efficient, and more sustainable.
– Stéphane Ougier , Executive Director at ALTEN .
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Global Platform Product Manager for SDV @ Stellantis | Driving Platform & API Strategies
4dNo pi o ku
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1wThe analysis is evident in the current challenge: the support between fundamental generations, and ALTEN's expertise is vital for a safer, more efficient, and sustainable industry. Let's get to work together!