Finland to revise nuclear laws

• 2 years ago (2021-12-13)
• David Flin

Europe 1061 Nuclear 639

---

Finland’s Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment (TEM) has announced that it will begin legislation for a comprehensive reform of the country’s Nuclear Energy Act. It said that future use of new technology in nuclear generation requires: “appropriate and up-to-date legislation.” TEM said it will carry out the reform so that: “the production of nuclear energy will continue to be in the general interest of society; safe and economically viable.”

TEM said: “The licensing system needs to be reformed in the light of experience and foreseeable developments. New players, operating models, and technologies such as SMRs are emerging in the industry.”

The legislation will include nuclear and radiation safety, security arrangements, safeguards, and nuclear liability. The ministry said: “It is necessary to lay down more precisely the criteria for the rights and obligations arising from the use of nuclear energy.” It added: “Renewal of nuclear energy legislation or related licensing is not a magic tool for bringing SMRs to market. Factors related to safety, responsibility, and cost exist. The creation and maintenance of a stable and investment-friendly operating environment is the responsibility of the government, and the actual investment is the responsibility of the players in the sector.”

The draft legislation is expected to be submitted for consultation during 2024, with the law entering into force in 2028.