Czech Republic is planning a small nuclear reactor: Environmental examination begins

Czech Republic is planning a small nuclear reactor: Environmental examination begins

In the Czech Republic, the work for the construction of an innovative small and modular nuclear reactor is in full swing. The Environment Ministry in Prague has started the requested environmental impact assessment (RRP). This examination is a legally required step to evaluate the possible environmental influences of the project. The planned reactor, known as Small Modular Reactor (SMR), is to be built on the site of the existing Temelin nuclear power plant and can create an electrical output of up to 500 megawatts.

The Czech Environment Minister Petr Hladik assured that residents and the public will have the opportunity to express their concerns. "We will also address all neighboring countries," said Hladik. At the same time, he emphasized that you expect the course of the exam as "extremely effective". The minister underlined the important role of nuclear power in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the decline in coal use. His statements illustrate political support for this technology as part of the energy transition.

geographical closeness and security concerns

The project is particularly explosive due to the geographical location of the Temelin nuclear power plant, which is less than 60 kilometers from the border with Austria. This accuses security concerns, in particular on the part of the opponents of nuclear power, the fear that an increased number of small reactors in the country could make security inspections difficult. These critics see the danger that the new technology does not offer the hoped -for security and bring additional risks.

The nuclear industry, on the other hand, is optimistic that the new SMR reactors will be easier, safer and more efficient than the traditional large power plants. It relies on the fact that these smaller systems could revolutionize energy generation. According to CEZ, the Czech atomic energy driver, there is the possibility to install up to six such SMR systems nationwide by 2050 in order to advance the gradual exit from carbon use.

In another important step, CEZ concluded a cooperation agreement with the British Rolls-Royce Group. This company has many years of experience in the construction of nuclear reactors for U-boats of the British Navy and will act as a partner in this project. CEZ participates in the new joint company Rolls-Royce SMR with 20 percent, which confirms the company's will to actively work in the development of this promising technology.

The ongoing environmental examination and the plans for the construction of the small reactors are part of a major discussion about the Ezechia's energy strategy. The government sees nuclear power a way to meet its own energy requirements sustainably and at the same time make it more environmentally friendly. You can find more information here .