A government-appointed committee on nuclear energy in Norway has concluded that the risks of establishing nuclear power are manageable but still advises against building any plants before 2045. The Kjernekraftutvalget, led by former energy director general Anne Vera Skrivarhaug, presented its findings on Wednesday after two years of assessment. The report states that while technical and safety barriers are not insurmountable, the economic and regulatory hurdles remain too high for immediate action.
The committee’s unanimous recommendation reflects broader political reluctance in Norway toward nuclear power. Despite global interest in small modular reactors, the panel argues that Norway’s energy system, dominated by hydropower, does not currently need nuclear to meet climate goals. Skrivarhaug emphasized that the timeline is not a strict deadline but a realistic assessment of when conditions might align. “We see no urgency,” she told reporters. “The cost of nuclear remains high, and we lack the infrastructure for fuel supply and waste management.”
The report highlights that Norway already generates nearly all its electricity from renewable sources, primarily hydropower. Adding nuclear would require substantial investment in grid upgrades, regulatory frameworks, and public acceptance campaigns. The committee also notes that Norway’s strict environmental laws and limited land availability further complicate large-scale nuclear projects. Small reactors could fit better, but their commercial viability is still unproven.
Environmental groups welcomed the decision. Silje Lundberg, chair of Naturvernforbundet, called it a sensible move. “Norway has everything to gain from doubling down on wind, solar, and hydropower,” she said. “Nuclear would only delay the transition we need now.” The government has not yet responded officially but is expected to review the report before the next parliamentary session in October.
Source: tu.no