The Riigikogu has passed a resolution supporting the adoption of nuclear energy in the country, paving the way for the creation of the necessary legal and regulatory framework.

(Image: Riigikogu)

The parliament based its decision on analysis conducted by the Nuclear Energy Working Group, which concluded that the adoption of nuclear energy in Estonia was feasible.

The resolution, Supporting the adoption of nuclear energy in Estonia (431 OE), says that Estonia's national development plan up to 2035 must consider the impacts of adopting nuclear energy in order to ensure security of energy supply "during the transition to climate-neutral energy production". This will include the development of a draft act on nuclear energy and safety and, if necessary, amending and supplementing existing legislation, as well as the creation of a regulatory authority for the safe use of nuclear energy, and the development of sectoral competences.

"When establishing the regulatory framework, it must be ensured that the risks related to national security, financing and form of ownership are thoroughly assessed," the resolution notes.

The explanatory memorandum that accompanies the resolution says adoption of nuclear energy in Estonia would, among other things, provide a continuous generation capacity that would balance the fluctuations in renewable energy generation capacity, help Estonia reach its climate neutrality target, ensure a stable and affordable electricity price in the long term perspective, promote research and development, bring economic benefits and create jobs for local people.

Forty-one members of the Riigikogu voted in favour of the draft resolution, with 25 voting against it and two members abstaining.

Researched and written by World Nuclear News