The commencement of nuclear fuel loading into the reactor of Unit 4 at the Mochovce Nuclear Power Plant marks another key milestone in the completion of one of Central Europe's most significant energy projects. The project has now entered its final commissioning phase before the unit is connected to the national power grid.
For Energetický a průmyslový holding (EPH), which, through Slovak Power Holding, owns a 66 % stake in Slovenské elektrárne, the completion of Unit 4 represents the culmination of a long-term strategic investment in stable, safe and low-carbon electricity generation.
Once Unit 4 enters commercial operation, approximately 77.5 % of Slovakia's electricity will be generated from nuclear energy, placing the country among the world's leading users of nuclear power by share of electricity production. With an installed capacity of 471 MW, the new unit will cover approximately 13 % of Slovakia's domestic electricity demand while significantly strengthening the country's energy security and the stability of the regional power system.
Fuel loading marks the transition from the construction phase to active commissioning. The next steps will include pre-critical testing, the first controlled nuclear chain reaction, power ascension tests and the gradual increase of output until the unit is synchronized with the electricity grid. The entire process is carried out under the strict supervision of the Nuclear Regulatory Authority of the Slovak Republic.
The completion of Mochovce Units 3 and 4 ranks among the largest private investments in Slovakia's history, with total project costs amounting to approximately EUR 6.7 billion. Construction resumed in 2008, incorporating modern safety standards that meet the current requirements of the European nuclear industry.
Unit 3 entered commercial operation in 2023. The completion of Unit 4 brings this landmark project to its conclusion, significantly strengthening carbon-free electricity generation not only in Slovakia but across the wider Central European region.
Nuclear energy remains one of the cornerstones of Europe's energy system. Across the European Union, it accounts for approximately 23 % of electricity generation, providing a stable low-carbon source of power that complements the continued expansion of renewable energy.
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