Fermi Energia submitted the initiation application on January 14. The aim of the planning is to assess the best location and the impacts on the environment, residents, and the economy. The planned area covers over 1200 square kilometers in Lääne- and Ida-Viru County and the sea area from Kunda Bay to Narva Bay. The large area allows for a thorough consideration of where the nuclear power plant could be located.
Local residents, municipalities, and interest groups will be involved in the planning process. The Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications and Fermi Energia signed a cooperation agreement on May 12. Fermi Energia will cover all costs, including those for impact assessments and studies. The ministry will organize the preparation of the plan.
Minister of Economic Affairs and Industry Erkki Keldo explained that initiating the special planning does not mean starting construction immediately. First, the conditions and location for building a nuclear power plant in Estonia will be analyzed. The preparation of the plan will ensure that if an investor wishes to invest, the state will already have a comprehensive plan in place.
Keldo added that if the decision is made to build a nuclear power plant, it will bring high-paying jobs to the region. This will support local services and the economy. He emphasized that in addition to renewable energy, a stable baseload is needed, which a nuclear power plant provides. Investing in nuclear power plants is a growing trend worldwide.
Minister of Energy and Environment Andres Sutt said that today's decision shows that Estonia is ready to prepare for the possibility of a nuclear power plant. Where and whether the nuclear power plant will ultimately be built will require additional decisions, including from the Riigikogu.