In Poland, the Location for the First Nuclear Power Plant Has Been Determined

The first nuclear power plant in Poland with a capacity of up to 3750 MW will be constructed in the commune of Choczewo in the northern part of the country. This decision was announced by the Pomeranian Voivode, Dariusz Drelich. It should be noted that this location does not necessarily guarantee the actual construction of the nuclear power plant there, as geological studies are still ahead, but it marks a significant step forward in the project's implementation, as reported by ESKA.

"The nuclear power plant planned for Pomerania will have a positive impact on energy stability, balance the projected growth in electricity demand, and ensure energy sovereignty. This is an investment in the future, harmonious development, and, most importantly, safety. We welcome everyone participating in the investment process," said Dariusz Drelich.

It is expected that Poland's first nuclear power plant will be based on American reactor technology, specifically the AP1000. Construction of the power station is set to commence in 2026, with the first reactor expected to come online in 2033.

In July of this year, the investment project for the construction of the nuclear power plant received approval from Poland's Ministry of Climate and Environment. This signifies that it aligns with the country's public interests and energy policy. The Voivode's decision allows the private energy company Polskie Elektrownie Jądrowe (PEJ) to conduct in-depth geological studies necessary to obtain construction permits.

"The planned investment will implement Poland's nuclear energy development program, align with Poland's Energy Policy until 2040, and correspond to the goals of the European Union's climate policy," stated PEJ.

However, some local residents oppose the construction of the nuclear power plant in the region. In late August, local residents gathered 10,000 signatures against the project.

"Many people in the commune and the region do not realize the extent of the interference of this power station in the environment and landscape, living conditions, and concerns of the residents. It will also impact tourism, for instance, due to the real threat of more frequent cyanobacterial blooms and negative effects on fishing due to the discharge of heated cooling water from the nuclear power plant into the Baltic Sea. This largest nuclear power plant in the Baltic Sea with a capacity of over 3.7 GW will transform our peaceful ecological, tourist, and agricultural region into an industrial nightmare during the construction phase. We hope that our voice in a democratic country will be heard," stated the initiative group opposing the nuclear power plant.

In November 2022, the Prime Minister of Poland, Mateusz Morawiecki, announced that the cost of the country's first nuclear project is approximately 20 billion US dollars (90-100 billion zlotys). Additionally, he mentioned that Americans would partially participate in the project's financing.