Russia alone is planning as many new nuclear reactors as it is in the entire European Union. Experts say how much the block should invest in meeting its energy needs.
Nuclear power remains one of the most important sources of energy in the EU. It accounts for 22.8% of all power generated across the block.
Following Germany’s closure, there are currently only 12 nuclear energy producers in the EU.
France is the largest provider of 57 reactors and 338 gWh per hour, generating 55% of the EU’s production. Spain is the next 9% or more, while Sweden is almost 8%.
However, investments in nuclear power have not been picked up.
The World Nuclear Energy Association (WNA) has recently warned that there are no sufficient reactors to generate the same electricity that will be closed in the future.
It could compromise the EU’s long-term energy security strategy, the organization said.
How does European reactor investment compare to Russia?
At this time, only two new reactors under construction in the EU are located in France, one in Slovakia.
A further 12 are planned throughout the block.
This is not only in Russia, but there are 14 new reactors in the pipeline. Six of them are already under construction.
WNA says the EU will need to invest in a new nuclear reactor worth at least 350 billion euros by 2050 to ensure energy demand.
Will Poland become Europe’s nuclear energy leader?
EU nuclear investment over the next few years will focus on Central and Eastern Europe, with two new reactors in Bulgaria, one in the Czech Republic, two in Hungary, three in Poland, two in Romania and two in Sweden.
Polish SEM is most pleased to strengthen nuclear production, suggesting that 26 new reactors will spread to Pictonou, Dobrovagorniccia, Nowafuta, Ostrowko, Stawi Monouki, Tarno Bruzeg and Ukwawek.
However, “it’s likely to be online within the next 15 years,” WNA said.
Currently, France is the most dependent on nuclear power, covering 65% of all electricity generated, with Slovakia at 62%.
In contrast, only 1.4% of the electricity produced in Germany and 3.3% in the Netherlands came from nuclear power plants.
