Helen held a local residents’ meeting on the small modular reactor project in Vuosaari
Helen’s goal is to build nuclear energy for heat production or combined heat and power generation in order to phase out energy production based on combustion by 2040. In November 2025, based on preliminary studies, Helen announced that the Salmisaari and Vuosaari power plant areas as well as the Norrberget area in Östersundom had been identified as potential site alternatives where the company will initiate the environmental impact assessment (EIA) procedure and more detailed studies. On Wednesday 25 March 2026, Helen held a local residents’ meeting in Vuosaari to discuss the project.
At the open residents’ meeting, Helen presented its small modular reactor (SMR) project and its progress. Presentations were given by representatives of Helen, the City of Helsinki and the Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK), covering the project’s progress, the environmental impact assessment (EIA) procedure, land-use planning and the role of authorities.
Following the presentations, an open discussion was held, during which participants had the opportunity to ask questions and share their views on the project. The discussion was lively and addressed, among other topics, safety, site alternatives, environmental impacts and the project’s broader societal effects.
The final decision on the placement of the facility at the sites under consideration will be made by the Helsinki City Council, after which Helen may proceed with investment and construction decisions. Helen’s objective is to build an SMR facility with a district heating capacity of 400–500 MW in one of the alternative areas. The facility may consist of one or several reactors.
Upcoming events:
1 April – Östersundom, Sakarinmäki Comprehensive School, Knutersintie 924, 5.00–6.30 pm
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