Helsinki energy company Helen is planning to build two small nuclear reactors in the Finnish capital. The company is evaluating three potential locations for these facilities. The sites under consideration include the existing power plant areas in Vuosaari and Salmisaari, plus a new potential location at Norrberget in Östersundom.
CEO Olli Sirkka explained that nuclear power would replace biofuel usage and could potentially generate both heat and electricity. This represents the largest investment in Helen's history, with each plant estimated to cost between 1 and 5 billion euros.
The Östersundom location presents an interesting development. This area isn't currently connected to Helsinki's district heating network, but it lies close to the Vuosaari power plant area. The city is currently zoning industrial plots in Östersundom, making it a viable candidate.
Sirkka emphasized the importance of having multiple options. He noted that having several potential sites provides flexibility if delays occur with any single location. Production could potentially begin as early as 2032, though Sirkka considers 2035 more realistic.
Helen aims to build two small nuclear reactors in the near future with a combined capacity of 500 megawatts. These plants would replace current biofuels, allowing Helen to completely phase out combustion-based heat production. The company already stopped coal burning last April.
The small nuclear plants could also generate electricity, whose demand is growing rapidly as various societal functions electrify. Ongoing studies are examining both heat-only facilities and technologies that can produce both heat and power.
Sirkka outlined a potential distribution ratio of two-thirds heat and one-third electricity. Nuclear power would also stabilize electricity production. Helen currently operates 900 megawatts of wind power, but its output varies greatly with weather conditions.
When wind blows, electricity becomes cheap. When there's no wind and temperatures drop, price spikes occur. Sirkka acknowledged that nuclear power costs two to three times more than wind power. Yet he stressed its necessity as a backup for heat production. He stated that no alternative exists in today's world that offers both stable and cheap electricity production.
Helen now seeks the right balance between reasonable consumer prices and stable production. The company cannot rush small nuclear development. Even if Finland's new nuclear law passes parliament by year's end, permitting and zoning will still take seven years.
Sirkka characterized the current moment as a historic turning point. He believes no other realistic alternatives exist for weather-independent, carbon dioxide-free production besides small nuclear power.
Several other Finnish energy companies are discussing small nuclear possibilities. Many want to observe how Helen progresses with its nuclear plant projects. Canada already builds small nuclear reactors, while projects advance in the United States and South Korea. Sweden's Vattenfall has expressed interest, Britain selects plant suppliers, and Poland and the Czech Republic plan their own units.
This nuclear construction would represent the largest investment in Helen's modern history. Sirkka summarized the cost range simply, noting that billions would be counted on one hand's fingers. Each small nuclear plant could cost 1-5 billion euros, with an estimated lifespan spanning 60-100 years.
Helen now begins detailed studies of different locations with zoning authorities. The company also wants dialogue with residents. A discussion event about small nuclear power will take place at Oodi Library on November 20.
This move toward nuclear energy represents a major shift in Finland's energy strategy. Helsinki's push for small nuclear reactors signals a broader Nordic trend toward stable, carbon-free power sources. The substantial investment required shows commitment to long-term energy security, though the decade-long timeline reminds us that energy transitions demand patience alongside ambition.