D. Saková: The Mochovce Nuclear Power Plant is entering a decisive phase. The loading of fuel into Unit 4 is a historic milestone
Today, Slovakia is reaching a significant milestone in its energy policy. The start of nuclear fuel loading into Unit 4 of the Mochovce Nuclear Power Plant marks the beginning of a crucial phase in bringing this new nuclear power source online and further strengthens the energy sovereignty of the Slovak Republic. For the country, this is a strategic moment that significantly enhances Slovakia’s ability to ensure stable, domestic, and low-carbon electricity generation amid rising consumption, the electrification of the economy, and ongoing geopolitical uncertainty. Once commissioned, the fourth unit, with an installed capacity of 471 MW, will cover approximately 13% of Slovakia’s total electricity consumption.
“The launch of Unit 4 at the Mochovce Nuclear Power Plant into trial operation is a significant milestone for Slovakia’s energy sector, energy security, and the competitiveness of its industry. Nuclear energy is the backbone of the stability of our power grid and one of the key pillars of our energy policy. Once the fourth unit is commissioned, the share of nuclear energy in domestic electricity consumption will rise to nearly 80%, placing Slovakia among the European countries with the highest share of nuclear energy. This outcome is evidence of the Slovak Republic’s long-term strategic continuity. Even at a time when nuclear energy was not a natural priority in Europe, the country decided to invest in stable domestic energy sources. Today, it is clear that this was the right and far-sighted decision. At a time of energy price volatility, rising consumption, and geopolitical risks, this is one of the strongest stabilising factors a country can have in its energy system,” said Denisa Saková, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy of the Slovak Republic.
Once Units 3 and 4 are completed, Slovakia will rank among the European countries with the highest shares of nuclear power generation. Nuclear energy already accounts for approximately two-thirds of electricity consumption in Slovakia, and once Unit 4 goes into operation, this share will rise to approximately 77.5%, placing Slovakia ahead of even France, which has long been regarded as a symbol of nuclear energy in Europe.
The start of trial operation of Unit 4 represents another step in the comprehensive licensing process, which includes a series of tests, verifications, and safety assessments under the supervision of the Nuclear Regulatory Authority of the Slovak Republic. The goal of this phase is to verify the safe and reliable operation of the nuclear facility before its entry into permanent operation.
The completion of the Mochovce project is one of the most significant energy projects in Slovakia’s modern history, with an investment of approximately EUR 6.5 billion, and represents a strategic investment in the country’s future.
Stable, reliable, and secure electricity generation—capable of being planned and forecast over the long term—will be crucial in the coming years. Electricity consumption in Slovakia will grow as a result of industrial decarbonisation, the development of electromobility, digitalisation, and the construction of data centres. This is one of the reasons why the Slovak Government has decided to continue preparations for a new nuclear power plant as another strategic investment in the country’s energy future.
The Ministry of Economy of the Slovak Republic also notes that today’s launch of Unit 4 into trial operation does not yet mark the start of the six-month period during which the State may exercise its option to acquire a 17% stake in Slovenské elektrárne.
The Memorandum of Understanding concluded between the Ministry of Economy of the Slovak Republic and Enel links the start of this period to the full completion of Units 3 and 4 and the issuance of all final administrative permits necessary for their commissioning for permanent operation.
This means that the six-month period will begin only after the Slovak Nuclear Regulatory Authority issues the final permits for the permanent operation of both units, and not from the date of the start of trial operation of Unit 4.
The Press Department of MoE SR