The announcement was made from a high school in Narva, where the Estonian government is meeting today
Fermi Energia’s CEO, Kalev Kallemets, stated: “The Estonian government's approval to begin planning for a 600MW nuclear power plant, following Fermi Energia's proposal using GE Hitachi's BWRX-300 small modular reactor technology, represents a significant step forward in Estonia's nuclear energy development. While planning and environmental impact assessments have historically been contentious issues in Estonia, Fermi Energia's extensive community outreach and the trust established with local municipalities - whose councils have already voted to support nuclear plant siting - provides reason for confidence that the planning process will proceed successfully.”
The planning area spans 1,285 square kilometers, covering rural municipalities of Viru-Nigula, Haljala, Rakvere, Vinni, Lüganuse, and Toila, as well as Rakvere city and Kohtla-Järve city in Lääne-Viru and Ida-Viru counties, and the sea area from Kunda Bay to Narva Bay. This large area allows thorough evaluation to determine the optimal location for the plant and its infrastructure, which will occupy a smaller footprint.
Minister of Economic Affairs and Industry Erkki Keldo noted: “The preparation of the plan does not mean that construction of a nuclear power plant will begin immediately. If a decision is made to build a nuclear power plant, its construction will also create new high-paying jobs in the region, which in turn will support the consumption of local services and thereby the development of the local economic environment.”
The planning process, engaging local residents, governments, and stakeholders, begins with site pre-selection from 2025 to 2027, focusing on areas near Kunda in Viru-Nigula and Aa in Lüganuse. Fermi Energia will fund this phase with €2.3 million from a recent funding round. By 2027, detailed site studies on geology, hydrology, and grid connectivity will ensure compliance with safety and performance standards. A construction permit application is planned for 2029, with the first BWRX-300 reactor potentially operational by 2035. Samsung C&T, following a teaming agreement in April 2025, is a prospective contractor for engineering, procurement, and construction.
This initiative supports Estonia’s sustainable energy goals, fostering economic growth and energy reliability through advanced nuclear technology.
