The expansion plans for the nuclear power plant of the Czech state energy group CEZ, in which so-called mini nuclear power plants – new small-scale nuclear power plants – could play a key role, are causing a lot of controversy in Austria. . Border communities in Upper Austria are already openly threatening an uprising. However, for energy expert and former head of the regulatory agency E-Control Walter Boltz, it is “too early to be afraid.”
According to Boltz, Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology has been talked about for 15 years and not one is up and running.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) concluded in 2020 that it is still a long way from an economically viable operation, the Ö1 “Mittagsjournal” reported Monday.
According to Petr Zavodsky, who is responsible for the expansion plans within CEZ, Prague also wants to wait for experience with the new technology in another country such as the US or Canada before starting construction.
Gewessler stands for the anti-nuclear line
In any case, Energy Minister Leonore Gewessler (Greens) wants to continue to represent Austria’s anti-nuclear line to all neighboring countries. Austria will be informed of all plans as soon as they are ready to be decided, but decisions must be made independently, Zavodsky said. A decision from the Czech government is not expected until the end of next year.
Two new reactor blocks and a number of smaller power plants are planned in Temelin. According to reports in the German media, seven concrete projects are already under investigation. The first in Temelin could be commissioned in 2032.
It’s bubbling in the Mühlviertel
In the Mühlviertler communities in Upper Austria – on the border with the Czech Republic – things are already simmering. The mayor of Leopoldschlag, Anita Gstöttenmayr (ÖVP), complains in the Ö1 “Tomorrow Journal” that no information was provided again. She adds: “Temelin is located more than 50 kilometers from the city center. You can see the reactors with the naked eye from certain heights in our community.” Demonstrations and border blockades – for example at the Wullowitz border crossing – are the subject of discussion.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
