Helsinki residents question nuclear plant safety in potential attack scenarios

Residents of Helsinki have raised concerns about the safety of a proposed small nuclear power plant, particularly in the event of an attack on the city, during a public meeting organised by energy company Helen, reports Finnish broadcaster Yle.

Helen is planning to build a small modular reactor (SMR) in one of three possible locations—Salmisaari, Vuosaari, or Östersundom—to replace fossil fuel-based energy production. The first public consultation was held in Salmisaari, with further meetings scheduled in Vuosaari and Östersundom this week.

Safety concerns dominate discussions
Attendees focused heavily on the plant’s safety under normal and emergency conditions, including fuel handling and resilience against external threats. Many questioned whether the facility could withstand an attack, given its proximity to the city centre and strategic sites like a shipyard and port.

Jukka Kupila, a senior expert from Finland’s Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK), confirmed that nuclear plants are designed to endure various impacts, such as aircraft collisions, but noted that no facility is built to survive a full-scale war. He argued, however, that nuclear plants are unlikely to be primary targets, citing Russia’s avoidance of direct strikes on Ukrainian nuclear facilities.

Helen’s proposed plant would use small modular reactors, which the company claims enhance safety through standardised, factory-built components. While around 100 SMR designs exist globally, most remain in early development, with only one under construction in the West.

Public scepticism and regulatory reassurance
When asked if anyone in the audience had seen an operational SMR, no hands were raised, prompting questions about the wisdom of building an untested design in a densely populated area. Pasi Rajala, Helsinki’s chief urban planner, acknowledged the uncertainty, stating, “We don’t yet know if this makes sense.”

STUK reiterated that no nuclear licence would be granted unless the location is deemed safe. The proposed Salmisaari plant would generate only district heating, not electricity, reducing its size and potential risks compared to larger dual-purpose facilities.

Next steps and public engagement
Helen’s public consultations continue this week, with meetings in Vuosaari (May 29) and Östersundom (June 5). The company aims to phase out fossil fuels but faces scrutiny over the feasibility and safety of nuclear energy in an urban setting.