Interview at COP30 — Emilie Isaacs, Global Head of Government Affairs, Urenco
At the Net Zero Nuclear Pavilion at COP30, we spoke with Emilie Isaacs, Global Head of Government Affairs at Urenco, about the policy, workforce, and industry strategies needed to deliver a just energy transition and help triple global nuclear capacity by 2050.
As a key supporter of the Net Zero Nuclear initiative, Urenco brings long experience in fuel cycle services and international collaboration. Emilie outlined how the sector can expand clean power, clean heat, and industrial decarbonisation through coordinated action.
Key Themes from the Interview
Just Transition & Workforce Development
Emilie emphasised the importance of skills, training, and upskilling—particularly as former fossil fuel sites transition into clean energy hubs. A strong, capable workforce is central to nuclear deployment.
Long-Term Policy for Tripling Nuclear
She highlighted the need for long-term, stable policy frameworks, including supportive green taxonomies and regulatory clarity. These conditions give companies the confidence to invest and work with customers on long-term contracts.
Industrial Decarbonisation & SMR Opportunities
Referencing Urenco’s recent Lucid Catalyst study, Emilie noted a potential 700 GW SMR demand across North America and Europe. Early opportunities exist in data centres, synthetic fuels, industrial heat, chemicals, maritime fuels, and coal-to-nuclear repowering.
Agile, Competitive Deployment
To accelerate new nuclear, Emilie pointed to standardized designs, factory-based manufacturing, and delivery models that emphasise replication. She also highlighted the role of blended public–private financing, citing Sizewell C as a recent example that unlocked wider investment.
Watch the Full Interview
View the complete conversation on World Nuclear Association’s YouTube channel to hear Emilie’s full insights on nuclear energy’s role in climate, industry, and economic development.
Lucid Catalyst study referenced in the interview:
https://www.urenco.com/cdn/uploads/supporting-files/Urenco_Lucid_SMR_Report_2025_Final.pdf