Denmark is reevaluating a 40-year prohibition on nuclear energy, marking a shift in policy for a nation that heavily invests in renewable resources.
The government plans to explore the advantages of advanced nuclear technology, following a ban on conventional reactors that has been in place since 1985, according to the Energy Minister.
Known for its robust renewable energy market, Denmark is home to Ørsted, the globe’s leading offshore wind energy company. The International Energy Agency reports that over 80% of the country’s electricity is generated from renewables like wind, biofuels, and solar energy.
There’s a possibility that Denmark could start investing in modular reactors, as suggested by Energy and Climate Minister Lars Aagaard.
Aagaard mentioned in an interview with the Danish newspaper Politiken, “We’re seeing progress with innovative nuclear generation technologies, specifically small modular reactors. But we need to understand what these mean for Danish society.”
This national decision to reconsider nuclear power comes amid rising interest in developing nuclear facilities across Europe and intentions to prolong the operational life of existing reactors.
Former Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen expressed support for lifting what he called the “silly” ban on nuclear energy in comments to the Financial Times.
“Wind and solar are beneficial when the conditions are right, but there’s a need for a consistent, non-fossil energy source. It’s absurd to eliminate nuclear energy from the equation,” he stated, implying this may signal a move toward lifting the ban.
The renewed focus on nuclear power could arise from increased demand for low-carbon electricity, crucial for transport, industry, and heating.
Developers of small modular reactors, which can be factory-built and assembled on-site, suggest these designs may offer reduced costs and quicker construction timelines compared to traditional large reactors.
Moreover, high-tech firms like Google are advocating for small modular reactors to ensure a reliable supply of energy for their operations.
In Spain, where nuclear energy is widely accepted, the country is reconsidering its plans to shut down seven reactors over the next decade, particularly after a significant blackout impacted the Iberian Peninsula last month.
Meanwhile, in Germany, where nuclear power was banned in 2022, discussions are resurfacing about possibly restarting reactors due to the heightened reliance on gas following decreased Russian imports.
The UK, France, and Belgium are all extending the life of their current nuclear facilities and working towards decarbonizing their energy sectors in response to the rising need for low-carbon electricity.
France aims to construct six new reactors to modernize its aging fleet and had recently connected its Flamanville three reactors to the grid, marking the first addition to its nuclear network in 25 years.
The UK is also developing the Hinckley Point C nuclear power plant in Somerset and has plans to establish a small modular reactor within the next few months.
In Denmark, Ørsted faces challenges, including high inflation and supply chain issues, leading the company to lay off employees and delay or cancel projects. Recently, it scrapped plans for the Hornsea 4 project, one of the largest offshore wind farms in the UK, located off the Yorkshire coast.
