Nuclear power plants in Europe

Nuclear power plants hold a significant position in the European energy landscape, offering a dependable source of electricity. However, their role has been the center of heated discussions, with arguments revolving around their advantages and safety considerations. Hence, it is crucial to assess the present status of nuclear power plants in Europe and their future prospects for development.

The current state of nuclear power plants

Currently, Europe hosts several dozen nuclear power plants, primarily concentrated in countries like France, Great Britain, and Spain. France particularly distinguishes itself as a nuclear energy leader, with its nuclear facilities contributing significantly to the nation’s electricity supply.

According to Eurostat data, in 2021, electricity production from nuclear power plants in 13 European Union member states increased by 7% compared to 2020, reaching 731,701 gigawatt hours, representing over 25% of the EU’s total electricity production.

France, leading in nuclear energy production, accounted for almost 52% of the EU’s total nuclear electricity production, generating 379,361 gigawatt hours. Following France in the ranking are Spain (8%), Sweden (7%), and Belgium (7%). Collectively, these five nations produce over 83% of the EU’s nuclear electricity output.

As of 2021, there were 106 operational nuclear reactors across 13 EU member states involved in electricity production, slightly fewer than the 109 reactors at the beginning of 2020.

France remains the country most reliant on nuclear power, with nuclear facilities contributing to 69% of the nation’s total electricity generation. Slovakia (52%) and Belgium (51%) also feature prominently among countries where over half of electricity production is derived from nuclear power plants.

Here is the breakdown of installed capacity in active nuclear power plants across European countries:

Source: world-nuclear.org

The largest nuclear power plants in Europe

In the list of the world’s 10 largest nuclear power plants, only 4 are located in Europe, with Asian countries like South Korea and Japan dominating the rankings. Nevertheless, Europe has seen the construction of many large-scale nuclear facilities over the years. Here are some notable examples:

• Forsmark Nuclear Power Plant (Sweden): 3,000 MW
• Ringhals Nuclear Power Plant (Sweden): 3,000 MW
• Tihange Nuclear Power Plant (Belgium): 3,456 MW
• Doel Nuclear Power Plant (Belgium): 3,924 MW
• Cattenom Nuclear Power Plant (France): 5,200 MW
• Paluel Nuclear Power Plant (France): 5,320 MW
• Gravelines Nuclear Power Plant (France): 5,360 MW
• Zaporizhia Nuclear Power Plant (Ukraine): 5,700 MW

It’s noteworthy that on September 11, 2022, the Zaporizhia Power Plant in Ukraine was disconnected from the electricity transmission network, initiating the process of shutdown and entering sleep mode.

Nuclear power plants in European Union legislation

Nuclear energy regulation in the European Union primarily falls under the Euratom Treaty, one of the founding treaties establishing the EU. All EU member states are parties to this treaty. Established in March 1957, the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom) aims to create a common market for the peaceful development of atomic energy.

In February 2022, the European Commission approved a draft taxonomy that acknowledges the role of gas and nuclear energy in the energy transition. This decision enables access to EU funds and financial markets for investments in these energy sources.

Despite efforts by some Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) to reject the delegated act proposed by the EC, the resolution to exclude nuclear energy and gas was ultimately defeated. In the vote, 278 MPs favored exclusion, 328 opposed it, and 33 abstained. An absolute majority of 353 votes was required to reject the EC’s proposal. If neither Parliament nor the Council rejects the proposal by July 11, the delegated act on the EU climate change taxonomy will come into effect from January 1, 2023.

New investments and technologies

Nuclear energy offers a significant advantage in reducing carbon dioxide emissions, positioning nuclear power plants as crucial tools in combating climate change. However, concerns over safety, nuclear waste management, and high construction costs contribute to the ongoing debate surrounding this energy source.

Despite the contentious nature of nuclear energy, several European countries are exploring the possibility of constructing new nuclear power plants. In Poland, nuclear energy is included in the long-term energy sector development strategy as a means of diversifying energy sources.

The development of new technologies, such as Generation IV reactors, represents a significant area of focus in research and development. These advanced reactors aim to enhance safety, efficiency, and address challenges associated with radioactive waste disposal.

Summary

Nuclear power plants continue to play a vital role in Europe’s energy landscape, offering a reliable energy source. Despite facing challenges and controversies, advancements in technology hold the promise of safer and more advanced forms of nuclear energy. Sustainable management of existing nuclear facilities and investments in innovative technological solutions will be crucial in shaping the future of nuclear energy in Europe.