Nuclear Energy

Nuclear energy reduces carbon dioxide emissions and the need for energy produced by burning fuels, making it climate‑friendly and helping to safeguard biodiversity. A sustainable and reliable energy system requires, alongside variable renewable production, a stable, predictable, and secure source of baseload power such as nuclear energy. Nuclear power can also produce both heat and electricity, which makes it a potential option as part of the future energy system.

Towards combustion‑free energy production

Helen’s goal is to achieve combustion‑free energy production by 2040. To reach this goal, Helen has identified nuclear energy as the most promising alternative and established Helen Nuclear Ltd, whose task is to examine the conditions for building nuclear energy production as part of Helsinki’s energy system.

What is a small nuclear reactor or SMR?

Helen Nuclear Energy Ltd assesses the suitability of reactor models based on proven solutions as part of Helsinki’s energy production, with the goal of producing either heat or combined heat and power.

The advantage of a small modular reactor (SMR) is its stable and emission‑free energy production. “Small nuclear power plant” is an umbrella term for several types of facilities that correspond in size to a medium‑scale industrial plant. Often, an SMR refers to a nuclear power plant with an output of a few hundred megawatts. In addition, “modular reactor” refers to a construction principle based on serial manufacturing. However, there is no single, universally accepted definition for a small nuclear power plant.

The accompanying illustration presents an architect’s vision of a small nuclear power plant in an imagined landscape.

Frequently asked questions about nuclear energy

Our Nuclear Energy Project

Our goal is to find a sustainable solution to achieve combustion‑free energy production while creating a competitive foundation for Helen’s energy system far into the future.

In our project, we are assessing the feasibility of incorporating combined heat and power reactors and heat‑only reactors—based on proven solutions—into our future energy production palette. The final decision on the project’s continuation and plant concept will be made based on a thorough evaluation of business models and the overall viability of the project.

At the moment, we are evaluating alternative business models and plant suppliers, as well as three potential plant locations: the Salmisaari and Vuosaari power plant areas, and the Norrberget area in Östersundom.

Helen Nuclear Energy Ltd is also building the capabilities needed for project management, plant operation, and ensuring safety, which additionally requires the creation of a strong and competent partner network.

Helen has over one hundred years of experience in energy production and power plant operations. We have also participated as a minority owner in Finnish nuclear power since its early years. We are known as a pioneer in the energy industry—one of the world’s most reliable energy companies. Now we are once again taking a step toward a new energy era.