Oskarshamn nuclear power plant up for sale as Social Democrats push for Swedish ownership

The Oskarshamn nuclear power plant is currently operated by OKG, with the majority stake held by the German energy giant Uniper, which is owned by the German state. The European Commission has mandated that the German government significantly reduce its ownership in Uniper by 2028. However, this divestment is likely to happen sooner, according to Fredrik Olovsson, spokesperson for the Social Democratic Party on business policy. “In effect, the plant is already up for sale,” he stated.

The Social Democrats believe the government must take action to ensure Swedish ownership of the Oskarshamn facility, which houses Sweden’s largest reactor. “Whether we in Sweden should own the nuclear power at Oskarshamn or if it will be privatized to an unknown new owner will be decided soon,” Olovsson noted. The party does not rule out nationalizing the power plant, which accounts for seven to eight percent of Sweden’s annual electricity consumption. “We can consider several models. The plant’s crucial role warrants increased state control,” he added.

According to the Social Democrats, it is in Sweden’s interest to enhance the facility’s capacity and extend its operational lifespan into the 2060s. The Minister of Energy and Business, Ebba Busch, has been approached for comment.