Italy will generate nuclear power by 2018 as the government introduces rules to bring back the energy source for the first time since a 1987 ban, Industry Minister Claudio Scajola said Thursday.
Next year energy companies will be able to apply to build nuclear facilities in Italy, with construction works starting by 2013, Scajola said at a conference in Rome held by Confindustria, the country's biggest business group.
Ultimately, Italy will generate about 25% of its electricity demand from nuclear power, he said.
The government's energy policy will results in companies' electricity bills dropping by at least 30%, bringing them in line with their main European rivals, said Scajola.
Italy will sign further cooperation agreements in nuclear power with other countries after those of recent months deals with France and Russia, Scajola also said.