ENERGY INDEPENDENCE
Nuclear power & strategic generation
03 ENERGY INDEPENDENCE — NUCLEAR POWER
The proposal is to place firm, reliable generation capacity at the centre of a long-term Irish energy-security strategy, with nuclear power examined as a potential major component alongside renewables, storage and interconnection.
THE PROPOSAL
- Commission a national nuclear feasibility programme covering small modular reactors and larger proven reactor technologies.
- Examine potentially suitable Bord na Móna lands and other sites, subject to independent geological, environmental, planning, water, grid and safety assessments.
- Explore a privately financed and operated model in which international energy companies provide capital and technical capability.
- Use long-term power purchase agreements or comparable contracts to provide revenue certainty where appropriate.
- Require independent nuclear safety regulation, transparent consultation and full waste and decommissioning provisions.
- Assess construction, engineering, skilled employment, grid investment, research and long-term electricity impacts.
INDICATIVE INVESTMENT
Approximately €5 billion for the initial programme
LEGAL POSITION
Ireland’s current Electricity Regulation Act contains a prohibition on providing for nuclear fission for electricity generation. A nuclear programme would therefore require legislative and regulatory change.