Sweden Plans 'Massive' Expansion of Nuclear Energy

Sweden announced on Thursday its intention to increase nuclear energy production to advance the country's energy transition and meet the growing demand for electricity.

The government presented a new roadmap for expanding production by the equivalent of two nuclear reactors by 2035, with a "massive increase" expected by 2045.

Energy Minister Eba Busch stated that the plan represents an additional step toward Sweden becoming a "strong nuclear nation" again. She emphasized during a press conference, "In the next 25 years, we must double Sweden's energy production."

The government also stressed that the plan would ensure its successful energy transition. It is estimated that Sweden will need the equivalent of 10 traditional nuclear reactors by 2045 to achieve these goals.

Currently, Sweden operates six reactors at three different power stations, and in August, the government announced its commitment to remove any obstacles to building new reactors.

Finance Minister Elisabeth Svantesson stated that the project's cost would be examined "as quickly as possible."

However, Greenpeace spokesperson Rolf Lindahl warned of the potential for cost escalation, citing similar projects in France, Finland, and the UK that experienced significant cost overruns and delays.