Norway takes first steps towards first commercial nuclear power plant
Norway could soon have its first commercial nuclear power plant. But there is still a long way to go. At the moment, it is questionable whether it is worth it.
Jeep II research reactor in Kjeller.
(Image: regieringen.no)
Norway's first commercial nuclear power plant could be built in the municipality of Farsund in Agder. The municipality has entered into a cooperation agreement with the energy company Norsk Kjernekraft to examine whether the site is suitable for a nuclear power plant. Although nuclear reactors were built in Norway in the 1950s – three in Kjeller and one in Halden –, they were only used for research purposes and are now out of operation.
However, there is still a long way to go before construction can begin. In June of this year, the Norwegian government initially set up a committee with twelve members to examine nuclear power as a possible source of energy for the country. It is due to present its report by the beginning of 2026, according to a statement from the Norwegian government.
Last year, consultants from Rystad Energy were commissioned by Norwegian industry associations to investigate whether so-called small modular reactors - also known as mini-nuclear power plants - could be considered for Norway's plans. They came to the conclusion that nuclear power is possible, but only in the 2040s; it is expensive and it is uncertain whether SMR technology will make it cheaper. This would probably not be easier to assess until the mid-2030s. The state would also have to make a significant contribution, particularly in view of the technology and the disposal of nuclear waste.
"SMR not yet in sight"
Norway, with its 5.4 million inhabitants, generates most of its electricity from hydropower. Renewable energies accounted for almost 76% of the country's gross final energy consumption in 2022. The Norwegian employers' association Næringslivets Hovedorganisasjon (NHO) expects the country's energy demand to rise sharply in the coming years.
Farsund's mayor Ingrid Williamsen also assumes this. Nuclear power could be a stable source of energy, even with predictable prices for electricity consumers. Her municipality is not the only one to offer itself as a location for a nuclear power plant. Taftøy Municipal Council, for example, has also decided to become a possible site for SMR and has already designated an area for it.
NHO emphasizes that it is a "technology optimist" and therefore does not want to write off nuclear power. However, European and US projects are struggling with delays and cost overruns, and SMRs are not yet in sight. NHO supports the government in continuing to pursue the development of nuclear power, but sees no basis for putting the issue at the top of the agenda at the moment.
(anw)
