Capital weighs nuclear heating

The Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment announced Monday that Helen Ydinvoima Oy has submitted an environmental impact assessment (EIA) programme for its planned nuclear power plant project in Helsinki, opening the document to public comment until January 4, 2027.

According to the ministry's press release, the project involves either a nuclear heating plant in Salmisaari, Vuosaari or Norrberget — with up to 18 reactors and a total thermal power of up to 630 megawatts — or a combined heat and power plant in Vuosaari or Norrberget. The EIA programme assesses the environmental impacts of these alternatives.

The ministry said an information session for the public will be held on November 16 at Oodi Central Library in Helsinki. Statements and opinions on the assessment programme can be submitted to the ministry until the January deadline.

The announcement marks the next stage in Helen's long-term planning for carbon-neutral district heating in the Finnish capital, with the EIA process required before any construction permit can be considered.