Estonia expects to identify preliminary nuclear power plant site by spring

Estonia's Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications expects that by spring, the site selection analysis for a nuclear power plant will have progressed sufficiently to identify preliminary candidate sites. Currently, authorities are evaluating six potential locations in the coastal areas of Kunda and Lüganuse-Toila, with three candidate sites in each area.

Agnes Lihtsa, adviser to the ministry's Land and Spatial Policy Department, stated that relevant authorities have developed a site evaluation framework containing 40 indicators, drawing on recommendations from the International Atomic Energy Agency. The evaluation covers nuclear safety requirements, geological and hydrological conditions, cooling water availability, potential impacts on the natural environment, and socio-economic factors.

Lihtsa noted that cooling water availability is a critical factor in site selection. As no river in Estonia has a flow rate sufficient to meet the operational needs of a nuclear power plant, such a facility could only be considered for construction in coastal areas. A nationwide spatial analysis conducted in 2023 has identified the Kunda and Lüganuse-Toila regions as potential siting areas.

In addition to natural conditions, the evaluation will also consider bedrock stability and infrastructure factors such as distance to transmission lines and ports. Potential grid connection points include substations near Rakvere and Pussi. Port facilities may be used for nuclear fuel transport and could also serve the delivery of large equipment and components during plant construction.

Authorities also stated that preference will be given to locations farther from residential areas with smaller surrounding populations. In August, the energy authority held information sessions in several municipalities covered by the planning. Local residents' primary concerns centered on the potential impact of nuclear power plant construction on property values, groundwater, and the surrounding natural environment.

All options remain under analysis at this stage. Authorities stated that the comparison methodology and evaluation criteria for different sites will need to be explained to the public in greater detail at a later stage.