Wedoany.com Report-Sept. 1, Norsk Kjernekraft AS has taken significant steps toward developing small modular reactor (SMR) power plants in two regions of Norway. A proposal for an assessment program to build an SMR plant in Grenland, southern Norway, has been submitted to the Ministry of Energy. Concurrently, a project company, Varanger Kjernekraft AS, has been established to explore constructing a nuclear facility in Vardø, northeastern Norway.

In Grenland, the initiative is led by Grenland Kjernekraft AS, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Norsk Kjernekraft. The proposed plant would consist of multiple SMRs with a combined capacity of up to 1,500 MW, producing approximately 12.5 terawatt-hours annually, equivalent to about 10% of Norway’s total electricity consumption. The proposal targets an unregulated plot of land at Herre in Bamble municipality, near the Skien port terminal, though other potential sites will also be evaluated. Jonny Hesthammer, CEO of Norsk Kjernekraft, stated: “Grenland is currently one of the regions in Norway with the highest power prices, and the industry is concerned about security of supply. With a nuclear power plant strategically located in Grenland, we can help solve both the price and capacity challenges.”

The Grenland proposal marks the first formal step toward establishing an SMR-based nuclear facility. It outlines the location, power needs, and contributions to local, regional, and national climate goals. The assessment will cover environmental, safety, societal, and economic impacts. Norsk Kjernekraft has invited Skien and Porsgrunn municipalities to join Bamble as potential co-owners of Grenland Kjernekraft AS, fostering local collaboration.

In Vardø, Varanger Kjernekraft AS, formed in partnership with Vardø Municipality, will investigate the feasibility of a nuclear plant in East Finnmark. This follows over two years of collaboration, initiated by Vardø in April 2023. A study program proposal for a plant at Smelror was submitted in June 2024. Hesthammer noted: “The start-up of this company is an important step towards strengthening societal security throughout northern Norway. Secure and predictable energy supply is a prerequisite for Norwegian sovereignty in the region.”

Both projects aim to address energy demands while supporting Norway’s climate objectives. The Grenland initiative seeks to stabilize power prices and supply, while the Vardø project focuses on enhancing energy security in the north. Following ministerial approval, thorough impact assessments will guide the feasibility of both projects, with subsequent steps involving licensing and permits.

These developments reflect Norway’s growing interest in SMR technology to meet energy needs sustainably. By advancing these initiatives, Norsk Kjernekraft aims to bolster regional energy infrastructure and contribute to economic and environmental goals.