Energy Transition Summit 2025 - Nuclear Energy Discussion
Energy Transition Summit 2025
October 2025
Denis Duff represented 18for0 at the Energy Transition Summit 2025 in a crucial fireside chat addressing one of Ireland's most important energy questions: Can we meet our zero-carbon power goals without considering nuclear energy? This landmark discussion brought nuclear energy into mainstream conversation at Ireland's premier energy policy event.
Fireside Chat: "Let's Talk About..."
The Question: Our goal is to produce stable, zero-carbon power but can we produce enough power to meet demand without considering producing nuclear energy? Are we ready to talk about it?
This fireside chat marked a significant moment in Irish energy discourse, bringing the nuclear conversation to a major industry event alongside policymakers, energy leaders, and stakeholders shaping Ireland's energy future.
About the Event
The Energy Transition Summit is Ireland's premier conference bringing together government officials, industry leaders, academics, and community stakeholders to chart the course toward a sustainable energy future. The 2025 summit focused on real-world solutions, inclusive policy, and technological innovation as Ireland positions itself at the heart of Europe's green energy shift.
Location: IMI Campus, Sandyford Road, Dublin 16
Speakers
Denis Duff
Founding Member, 18for0
Denis is a chartered engineer with global experience in power generation operation and maintenance, and in electricity trading systems. He has hands-on experience with a diverse range of energy technologies spanning wind, solar and hydro to gas, oil and peat in engine, boiler or gas turbine formats. His extensive background in energy systems gives him unique insight into Ireland's electricity challenges and the practical considerations for introducing nuclear power.
Jon Sedgwick
Head of Regulatory Affairs, Bord Gáis Energy
Jon brings deep expertise in energy regulation and policy from one of Ireland's leading energy suppliers. His perspective on market dynamics and regulatory frameworks provides valuable context to discussions about Ireland's energy options.
Key Discussion Topics
- Energy Security: Can renewables alone provide the stable, reliable power Ireland needs?
- Zero-Carbon Goals: Meeting Ireland's ambitious climate commitments while maintaining grid stability
- Baseload Power: The role of always-available electricity sources in a renewable-heavy grid
- Economic Considerations: Cost-effectiveness and energy affordability for consumers and industry
- Technology Evolution: Modern nuclear technology including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
- Policy Framework: Section 18 and the path to evidence-based energy policy
- Public Discourse: Are we ready for an open, informed conversation about all energy options?
- Grid Modernisation: Integration challenges and solutions for diverse energy sources
Why This Matters
This fireside chat represented a breakthrough moment—bringing nuclear energy into Ireland's mainstream energy conversation at a major policy event. By asking "Are we ready to talk about it?" the discussion acknowledged that Ireland's energy challenges require considering all available options, including technologies currently prohibited under Section 18.
The inclusion of this topic at the Energy Transition Summit signals growing recognition within Ireland's energy sector that nuclear power deserves serious, evidence-based consideration as part of the country's path to decarbonisation.
More Information
The Energy Transition Summit continues to be a vital platform for shaping Ireland's energy policy. The next summit is scheduled for September 30th, 2026 at Croke Park, Dublin.