Poland Signs Deal for First Nuclear Power Plant

Poland has taken a significant step toward bolstering its energy security and reducing reliance on fossil fuels by signing a preliminary agreement with the American nuclear group, Westinghouse, to design its first nuclear power plant for electricity production.

The estimated cost of constructing the plant, located in northern Poland, is about $23 billion, with the first reactor expected to begin operation in 2033.

Poland was among the 11 European Union (EU) countries that agreed in February of last year to deepen cooperation in the field of nuclear energy, describing it as the preferred strategy for achieving carbon emission reduction goals.

During the contract signing ceremony, Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki stated, "Today, Poland is opening a new chapter in nuclear energy. Just as the 20th century was the era of coal and oil, the 21st century is the era of atomic energy."

Poland ultimately plans to build three nuclear power stations, each containing three reactors, generating around 30% of its electricity production.

This issue has caused significant division in Europe, with many EU countries strongly opposing the construction of additional nuclear power stations on the continent.

Germany and Spain, in particular, advocate for a focus on the development of renewable energy sources.

According to Poland's nuclear energy development program, the first unit is set to be launched in 2033, located near the Gdansk coast.

Subsequent units will be constructed every two to three years, with the entire nuclear program encompassing the construction of six units with a capacity of up to 9 gigawatts.