First application for new nuclear power plant submitted in over 50 years

A Swedish energy company has submitted the first application in more than five decades to build a new nuclear power facility in the country, marking a potential shift in Sweden’s energy policy.

Kärnfull Next, a nuclear energy developer, filed a formal request with the government on Monday to construct four to six small modular reactors (SMRs) in Valdemarsvik municipality, according to a report by SVT Nyheter. The proposed plant would have a total capacity of 1,200–1,600 megawatts.

Acting Climate and Environment Minister Johan Britz (Liberal Party) confirmed receipt of the application, calling it “a historic day for Sweden” as the first proposal for nuclear expansion at a new site by a new company.

The government will now review the request before it proceeds to Valdemarsvik municipality for approval. Further assessments by the Land and Environment Court and the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority will follow.

John Ahlberg, Kärnfull Next’s strategy chief, stated that extensive studies, ecological surveys, and test drilling had been completed to support the application. “We’ve been working locally since 2024, and the municipal leadership has shown strong interest,” he said.

The company, acquired by nuclear technology firm Studsvik in March 2026, specializes in SMR development. A final investment decision is not expected before the late 2020s, assuming regulatory approvals proceed as planned.

Britz emphasized the government’s commitment to expanding nuclear power, citing increased electricity demand for electrifying transport and other sectors currently reliant on fossil fuels. “We will need more electricity to replace fossil-based activities,” he said.

Kärnfull Next welcomed a new law introduced in August 2025, which allows financial support for nuclear projects. When asked about potential cost overruns, Ahlberg described it as “a matter for discussion between parties.”

Despite ongoing political disagreements over energy policy, Ahlberg expressed confidence in cross-party support for nuclear expansion, noting “a perceived willingness” among Social Democrats to back new reactors.