Denmark Begins Study on Potential Use of Nuclear Energy

The Denmark’s Ministry of Climate, Energy and Utilities has announced the start of studies for investigating the “potential and risks” of new nuclear technologies, in particular small modular reactors (SMR), as well as for the lifting of a moratorium on nuclear power use.  

The interest in nuclear power plants (NPP) increases with a view to the ongoing development of SMR solutions, reliable electricity supply from NPP and stable low energy prices, focus of European countries on the energy independence, etc.

According to the Ministry, the study has already begun to cover the following aspects:

• possibility to integrate SMR in the Danish energy system, including in relation to economic costs and benefits;
• need for new national regulation, structure of state regulatory authorities for nuclear and radiation safety and relevant competencies for possible establishment of NPP;
• development of a work plan for deployment of such facilities, as well as search of solutions if it is politically desired to lift the ban on nuclear energy use;
• commercial interest in the development and supply of components for SMR, as well as involvement of large commercial enterprises in Denmark to purchase energy and/or heat from such reactors.

The study will also include the assessment of the needs in resources and distribution of responsibilities between the state agencies in case of lifting of the ban and the start of testing and establishment of SMR in Denmark.

The study is planned to be completed in the second quarter of 2026.

According to the World Nuclear News