Poland, Czech Republic reach nuclear energy deal

Poland and the Czech Republic have agreed to enhance their collaboration in the civil use of nuclear energy.

The agreement was reached during a meeting between Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and his Czech counterpart Petr Fiala. Tusk acknowledged that Poland is starting from scratch in the field of nuclear energy, while the Czech Republic brings years of experience to the table, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

“We are convinced that nuclear energy is the way forward,” Fiala stated during the talks.

Poland is planning to make significant investments in nuclear energy over the next few decades. In 2022, the country signed a contract with US-based Westinghouse to construct its first nuclear reactor. The plant's first unit is set to be operational by 2033, with five additional reactors to follow.

Meanwhile, the Czech Republic currently operates six nuclear reactors at two sites: Temelín and Dukovany in the southern part of the country.

The prime ministers also addressed the future of the Schengen Area, expressing concerns over the recent introduction of border controls by Germany in September. These controls were aimed at reducing unauthorized entries into the country.

Fiala emphasized that border checks go against the spirit of the European Union and European integration, calling for solutions to illegal migration at the EU’s external borders instead.

The first nuclear power plant in Poland is expected to be built in Pomerania, using U.S. AP1000 reactor technology. Construction is slated to begin in 2026, with the first reactor coming online by 2033.

Last year, Poland also signed an agreement with South Korea to build a second nuclear power plant, speeding up efforts to achieve energy independence, especially in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

By Khagan Isayev