NICE Future Initiative
Goal
The NICE Future initiative, the only nuclear initiative of CEM, leads the global conversation on the role nuclear energy plays in energy systems of the future. Recognizing there is no one-size-fits-all solution to energy challenges, NICE Future brings together government, private sector, and non-governmental partners to explore the role of advanced nuclear technologies in supporting reliable, affordable, secure, and flexible energy systems worldwide.
The initiative seeks to achieve this goal in support of the following strategic objectives:
- Bring nuclear energy from traditional, nuclear-only fora to broader multilateral discussions on energy security, grid reliability, and infrastructure modernization at both the ministerial and working levels.
- Engage both nuclear and non-nuclear energy policy makers and stakeholders in a discussion on the role of nuclear energy in reliable and affordable power generation, advanced reactor deployment, and supply chain development for energy systems of the future.
- Ensure policy makers are informed of the opportunities and challenges to meet global energy goals—covering areas of technology feasibility, economics and financing, and stakeholder engagement.
Overview
The NICE Future initiative aims to ensure that nuclear energy receives appropriate representation in high-level discussions about energy security, resilience, and infrastructure investment.
The initiative engages diverse stakeholders to focus on full-scale nuclear for baseload electricity as well as innovative, next-generation technologies and nuclear energy systems across four key areas:
- Exploring innovative applications for advanced nuclear systems—both electric and non-electric—to deliver reliable, high-density power for critical infrastructure and industrial growth.
- Engaging policy makers and stakeholders on energy security, economic competitiveness, and technology leadership in future energy systems.
- Pooling economic expertise, including valuation, market structure, financing capabilities, and public-private partnerships to strengthen supply chains.
- Communicating nuclear energy’s integral role in energy systems, economic advancement, and workforce development.
Activities
Messaging and Communication
- Promoting advancements in nuclear energy through publications, webinars, and strategic engagement that build trust, transparency, and broaden stakeholder support.
Advanced Reactor Technology and Energy Systems
- Exploring pathways for large-scale reactors, small modular reactors (SMRs), and energy systems that are focused on flexible, secure, and affordable energy futures.
Economic Modeling and Finance
- Supporting the deployment of nuclear technology through modeling, financing solutions, and regulatory dialogues to help stakeholders understand job creation and investment potential.
Non-Electric Applications
- Exploring and advancing non-electric applications of advanced nuclear technology.
Technical Development and Mentorship
- Investing in the next generation of nuclear energy leaders through mentorship and training.
Under these five pillars, the NICE Future initiative provides workshops, analytical tools, webinars, and reports and analysis.
Community
Co-leads
Participants
Coordinator
Partners
International Energy Agency
OECD Nuclear Energy Agency
International Atomic Energy Agency
International Framework for Nuclear Energy Cooperation
Generation IV International Forum
ClearPath
Third Way
International Youth Nuclear Congress
American Nuclear Society
Nuclear Industry Council
Nuclear Energy Institute
World Nuclear Association
Électricité de France
