Poland needs a second nuclear power plant and possibly more, says Marek Woszczyk, CEO of Polskie Elektrownie Jądrowe (PEJ), the company coordinating the selection of location and technology for subsequent investments. In an interview with WNP, Woszczyk outlined a vision that could see up to three large-scale nuclear plants built in the country over the coming decades.
The updated Polish Nuclear Power Program, expected to be adopted by the government soon, sets a target of 9 GW of installed nuclear capacity. The first plant, being built in Choczewo, Pomerania, will deliver three reactors with a total capacity of around 3.7–3.8 GW. This leaves more than 5 GW to be filled – enough for another four to five reactors, meaning at least one more large plant, and possibly two.
Woszczyk spoke during a study visit to Konin, one of two candidate sites for the second plant, along with Bełchatów in central Poland. PEJ will act as a coordinator for the selection process, though the final decision rests with the government. He stressed that the process is long and complex, requiring detailed radiological protection and safety studies.
Two locations in play, final decision not yet made
Konin and Bełchatów are the leading candidates for the second nuclear plant. Local disappointment was expressed in Bełchatów after the updated program did not name a single winner. Woszczyk acknowledged the disappointment but said he looks at the issue systemically, considering the needs of the national power system and the economy.
– From the perspective of the investor building the first plant, I have no doubt that the system needs solid baseload power. The second plant is the answer, and perhaps further ones – I would not rule that out – said Woszczyk.
He emphasized that the investment process for large-scale nuclear plants is inevitably long due to strict quality, safety, and licensing requirements. The preparatory documentation alone takes years of work.
Ukraine war shows nuclear’s value for energy security
Asked why nuclear energy is so crucial, Woszczyk pointed to the ongoing war in Ukraine. – The conflict clearly shows that nuclear power plants in Ukraine, unlike any other technology, are operating today in the baseload of the power system and ensuring its security. Electricity flows in Ukrainian grids despite the war precisely because nuclear plants are working – he said.
He noted that once built, a nuclear plant operates for decades – the American technology planned for Choczewo has a minimum lifetime of 60 years, extendable to 80 or even 100 years. This long lifecycle provides a stable energy source for several generations.
Finance, technology, location – all interconnected
Woszczyk stressed that the choice of location, technology, and financing are inseparable. Each technology may suit a specific site differently, and financial partners offer varying terms. – The American example is a reference but does not give us ready-made solutions for the future – he said, adding that export credit agencies from different countries typically participate, but the strength of their support varies.
He also noted that private and financial partners have their own resources. The final decision will depend on the level of risk a partner is willing to take and the conditions of their participation. Every such investment is embedded in a geopolitical, economic, and social ecosystem that influences it.
Woszczyk refrained from commenting on earlier statements by the prime minister who had declared Bełchatów as the site for the second plant, saying such questions should be directed to the prime minister himself.
Źródło: wnp.pl, Fot. UMWW / PTWP
