Aim is to deploy NuScale Voygr reactors at coal and industrial sites
Polish copper and silver producer KGHM Polska Miedź SA has submitted an application to the country’s climate ministry for a decision-in-principle on the construction of a small modular reactor power plant.
The move means KGHM is the second company to ask for a decision in principle on new nuclear.
Last week nuclear project company Polskie Elektrownie Jądrowe (PEJ) submitted an application for a decision-in-principle on the proposed construction of a first large-scale nuclear power station in the northern province of Pomerania.
Both applications follow the recent introduction of an updated nuclear energy law which allows applications for a decision in principle to be submitted at the beginning of the process – effectively securing state support for any project before the need for significant investment.
KGHM said obtaining the decision-in-principle is “an expression of the state’s support for the implementation of the project” and entitles it to apply for a number of subsequent administrative decisions, such as the siting decision or the construction permit.
“Until the completion of the administrative procedure, KGHM will not provide information on the progress of the proceedings and details of the application,” the company added.
In February 2022, KGHM signed a definitive agreement with US reactor developer NuScale Power to begin work towards deploying a first NuScale Voygr SMR power plant in Poland as early as 2029.
Last year KGHM said it was in the process of looking for a location for its first SMR in Poland with a decision to be made within five years.
KGHM wants to explore the deployment of SMR technology to repurpose or replace existing coal-fired power plants and provide electricity and heat for its industrial processes.
