CEZ may operate six small modular reactors in Tusimice

Tusimice, North Bohemia, May 13 (CTK) - Semi-state energy group CEZ could operate up to six small modular reactors in Tusimice near Chomutov, which could replace electricity production of the Tusimice II lignite power plant, according to its published intention.

The first unit is expected to be commissioned in 2038. The total electrical output of the reactors is to reach 1,500 megawatts. The plan envisages about 1,200 workers working around the clock

The Environment Ministry has initiated a fact-finding procedure during which municipalities and other authorities may comment on the plan within one month.

The beginning of electricity production in Tusimice dates back to 1963-1964, when the Tusimice I power plant was put into operation. It served until the early 1990s, after which all six units were closed. The Tusimice II power plant with four units has been in operation since the mid-1970s. Each has a capacity of 200 megawatts.

The limit for the operation of the Tusimice plant is coal mining. The plant gets coal from the neighbouring Libous mine, which belongs to the Doly Nastup Tusimice mine. "Mining at Doly Nastup Tusimice could continue until 2029 according to the mining permit. Any possible shortening of the period is now being assessed as part of decarbonisation targets," Lukas Kopecky, spokesman for CEZ's mining subsidiary Severoceske doly, told CTK

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