Czechia’s Nuclear Expansion Aims to Eliminate Fossil Fuels and Slash Emissions

In a bold move towards expanding its nuclear energy capacity, Czechia is working on a significant project valued at approximately $19 billion (€16.4 billion) aimed at reducing fossil fuel dependency and cutting carbon emissions. This initiative includes the construction of two new reactors at the Dukovany nuclear power plant, which will enhance the nation’s nuclear output and solidify its standing as a leading nuclear energy producer in Europe.

Czechia’s Nuclear Expansion Plans

The Dukovany site currently houses four reactors, each with an output of 512 megawatts, which are now several decades old. The new reactors, awarded to South Korea’s KHNP, are expected to have over 1,000 megawatts of output each and are scheduled to become operational in the latter half of the 2030s.

Strategic Objectives

• The project aims to double Czechia’s nuclear energy capacity.
• It seeks to phase out coal by 2033, responding to climate change challenges.
• Approximately 50 to 60 percent of the nation’s energy needs are projected to be met by nuclear power by 2050.

Petr Závodský, CEO of the Dukovany project, emphasized the need for nuclear energy in ensuring reliable electricity supply for emerging demands on the grid, such as data centers and electric vehicles. He highlighted the role of nuclear power in meeting low-emission targets.

Broader Context of Nuclear Energy in Europe

As energy demand continues to rise, Czechia’s expansion comes amid a European renaissance of nuclear energy. Countries such as Poland have plans to join the ranks of nuclear-dependent nations, while Belgium and Sweden have revived their interest in using nuclear power.

The European Union recognized nuclear energy as a sustainable economic activity, facilitating funding opportunities. In 2024, nuclear power contributed to 24 percent of EU electricity generation.

Financial Aspects

The financial framework for the Dukovany expansion includes the Czech government acquiring an 80 percent stake in the new project. Plans involve securing a 30-year loan, backed by a commitment to a stable electricity income for CEZ, the primary power company in the nation. This strategic investment is crucial for Czechia’s transition to a sustainable energy future.

Challenges in Nuclear Development

Despite public support for nuclear energy in Czechia, the expansion faces several challenges. Protest groups argue that funding would be better used to improve existing industry resources rather than new developments. Furthermore, the country lacks a permanent storage facility for spent nuclear fuel.

• Czechia is dealing with delays due to financing uncertainties, marked by a cancelled tender in 2014.
• Security concerns following geopolitical tensions have excluded certain international players from participation.

Nuclear expansion has also encountered resistance from neighboring Austria, which remains opposed to atomic energy. Past disputes over nuclear plant operations have led to political crises affecting diplomatic relations.

As Czechia moves forward, its commitment to enhancing nuclear energy capacity reflects a critical step toward a sustainable future, aiming for a reliable energy source while addressing climate change goals. With these developments, Czechia is poised to play a crucial role in the evolving dynamics of European energy policy.