About nuclear energy program
Helen launched its nuclear energy program in autumn 2024 with the goal of building a small modular reactor (SMR) in the Helsinki metropolitan area to provide clean and stable energy for local residents and for Finland. The program is currently in the preparation phase, during which Helen is mapping potential site options for the plant, running competitive tenders for technology suppliers and exploring possible alternative business models
Helen's nuclear energy program aims to achieve ambitious climate goals and to combustion-free energy production by 2040
A small nuclear power plant produces energy consistently, reliably, and predictably, regardless of weather conditions, which helps stabilize fluctuations in electricity market prices. With its carbon dioxide-free production, small nuclear power could, in the future, be part of Helen’s broader portfolio of low-emission energy production.
Helen’s goal is to build small nuclear power production and move away from combustion-based energy production by 2040. Over its entire lifecycle, a nuclear power plant’s carbon dioxide emissions are even lower than those of solar and wind power, so as part of the energy system, it would also support Helsinki’s ambitious emission targets. Compared to other clean production methods, its minimal land requirements make it suitable for Helsinki, where land is scarce. Thanks to its small land footprint and efficient production, it also supports ecosystems important for biodiversity.
With nuclear energy, we can secure the energy needs of a growing city while simultaneously reducing emissions and cost pressures on energy prices.
The Path of Small Nuclear Power from Studies to Implementation
Commissioning a nuclear power plant is a multi-year process that includes several decision-making phases and studies before the investment decision and the start of construction. Our goal is to achieve combustion-free energy production by 2040 through the nuclear energy program.
Potential options for plant sites
We are currently investigating potential plant sites in the Helsinki metropolitan area where we can begin preparing a zoning application and initiate an environmental impact assessment. We will publish more information about the selected plant sites for further studies as the process progresses.
Selecting the plant supplier
Selection of the plant supplier will be carried out through a competitive bidding process. Helen’s options include approximately ten Western plant suppliers. Our alternatives include small reactor models that produce both heat and electricity, as well as models that produce only heat. These are based on nuclear power technology that has already been used in Finland for nearly 50 years.
Alternative business models
Our goal with the nuclear energy program is to achieve the greatest overall benefit possible for both the residents of Helsinki and all of Finland. To accomplish this, we are exploring various business models with different stakeholders.
Kysymyksiä ja vastauksia
Helsinki’s goal is to move towards zero emissions and non-combustion energy production. Helen aims for combustion-free heat and electricity production by 2040 and is exploring the prerequisites for small nuclear power to operate as part of Helsinki’s energy production portfolio. To ensure the stability of the energy system in the future, Helsinki needs stable energy production alongside solar and wind electricity imported from elsewhere in Finland.
Small nuclear power can produce a lot of energy with a small land area and minimal impact on nature, which helps safeguard biodiversity. Production is steady, predictable, and does not depend on weather conditions, which stabilizes energy prices. Nuclear power generation does not produce carbon dioxide and plays a significant role in reducing energy-related CO₂ emissions both in Finland and globally. Additionally, it improves security of supply and energy self-sufficiency in all situations.
We are currently investigating different options for the plant location. However, it is clear that a heat-producing plant must be situated within the district heating network’s reach to ensure that our heating customers receive the intended benefit in the form of reliable and affordable heat.
Our aim is to build nuclear energy for heat production, which is why the plant unit must be located within the reach of the district heating network. We are also considering a plant option that produces both electricity and heat, known as a combined heat and power plant, but even in this case, heat production requires proximity to the district heating network.
The types of plants included in Helen’s options are based on the same proven technology that has been used in Finnish nuclear power plants for almost 50 years. The plants considered by Helen also utilize passive safety systems that are independent of external electricity supply, making them even safer. We work closely with the Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) throughout the entire project, and we meet all the safety requirements as specified. The only plant to be constructed will be a safe plant.
Nuclear power is a familiar and reliable technology in Finnish energy production, and its use is closely monitored and regulated. The Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) oversees nuclear power and also assesses the safety of each small nuclear power plant.
The lower output and moderate size of small nuclear power plants, combined with the latest technology-based safety systems, further enhance their safety. Additionally, they employ so-called passive safety systems, which are designed to be independent of the external electricity grid and its operation.
The amount of nuclear waste produced during the lifecycle of a small nuclear power plant is very modest, but regulations regarding its management impose strict obligations on the plant’s license holder. Helen’s nuclear power program also includes thorough investigation and planning of arrangements related to waste. The final disposal solution permanently isolates radioactive material from the environment, ensuring it has no impact on people, animals, or nature.
Finland is the world’s most advanced country in the final disposal of spent nuclear fuel, and is the first in the world to implement bedrock-based final disposal. The details of Helen’s final disposal solution will be designed as the project progresses, and the solution must be presented as part of the environmental impact assessment (EIA) report and the application for a decision-in-principle.
Small nuclear power plants are subject to the same safety requirements as large nuclear power plants. The facility must withstand, for example, an impact equivalent to a passenger aircraft collision. In addition, the design and construction of the plant take into account various natural phenomena and events caused by traffic. External threats, such as sabotage, are also addressed with separate safety arrangements.
A nuclear power plant requires external electricity to implement cooling. However, it is possible to build systems for small nuclear power plants that can operate for long periods, or even entirely, without external electricity supply. Thus, the safe operation of the facility would not be compromised even under exceptional circumstances.
Nuclear power generates small amounts of radioactive spent fuel, which is in solid form and therefore easily manageable. According to legislation, spent nuclear fuel may not be exported from Finland, and in Finland, it has been decided to permanently dispose of it deep in the bedrock. The final disposal solution isolates the radioactive material permanently from the rest of the environment, so it has no impact on people, animals, or nature. Finland is the world’s most advanced country in the final disposal of spent nuclear fuel, and our country is the first in the world to implement a sustainable bedrock-based final disposal. The details of Helen’s final disposal solution will be designed as the project progresses, and the solution must be presented as part of the environmental impact assessment (EIA) report and the application for a decision-in-principle.
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a statutory procedure used to investigate the environmental effects of a project. The aim of the EIA process is also to increase citizens’ opportunities to participate in and influence the planning of projects. The types of projects that always require an EIA are listed in a decree issued by the Council of State. Such projects can include, for example, motorways, landfills, or power plants.
The procedure is supervised and monitored by the ELY Centre, which acts as the coordinating authority.
For nuclear energy projects, the coordinating authority is the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment.
Source: ELY-keskus
A precautionary action zone refers to an area where protective measures may need to be implemented in the event of an accident. There are restrictions on land use within the protection zone.
An emergency planning zone, on the other hand, refers to an area where, in the event of an accident, urgent protective measures for the population may need to be implemented, and for which the authorities must prepare an external rescue plan. The protection zone is included within the preparedness area
Source: STUK
