Slovakia’s decision to extend its reliance on Russian nuclear fuel until 2030 underscores a contentious approach to energy security, contrasting sharply with the Czech Republic’s accelerated transition to Western suppliers.
Minister of Economy Denisa Saková announced that Slovenské elektrárne (SE), Slovakia’s primary energy producer, has exercised a contractual option to procure nuclear fuel from the Russian company TVEL until 2030. SE’s spokesperson Oľga Baková highlighted the move as a response to geopolitical uncertainties, aiming to maintain stable energy supplies.
Currently, SE’s stockpile guarantees operations for two and a half years. Beyond this, the extended contract with TVEL will ensure consistent operations, despite ongoing efforts to diversify suppliers. In this vein, SE has agreements with Westinghouse and the French company Framatome, but these alternatives will only begin supplying fuel in 2027.
Czech Republic Leads in Diversification
The Czech energy firm ČEZ is years ahead in reducing dependence on Russian fuel. By the end of 2023, ČEZ’s Temelín nuclear power plant will fully transition to fuel supplied by Westinghouse and Framatome. In contrast, Slovakia’s reliance on Russian TVEL remains firmly entrenched for similar 440-megawatt reactors, also used in its Mochovce and Jaslovské Bohunice plants. These reactors require customised fuel, complicating diversification efforts.
ČEZ’s success is attributed to collaborative efforts with other European countries and swift adaptation following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, challenges persist for the Dukovany plant, which will continue using Russian supplies until 2028.
Structural Challenges to Decoupling from Russian Nuclear Energy
Global reliance on Russia for uranium enrichment poses significant obstacles to diversification. Russia controls 40% of the global enrichment capacity, with other major players like China, France, and the UK prioritising domestic or regional needs. According to SE’s CEO Branislav Strýček, replicating such capacities elsewhere is a monumental task akin to constructing new nuclear facilities.
Strýček also emphasised the necessity of adhering to existing contracts with TVEL to prevent operational disruptions. This cautious approach reflects broader European challenges in balancing immediate energy security with long-term diversification goals.
