Finns to Advise Estonia on Nuclear Power Plant Development

TALLINN - The Finnish nuclear energy company TVO Nuclear Services (TVONS) and Fermi Energia have signed a framework agreement under which TVONS will act as an advisor in the ongoing project to establish a small modular reactor (SMR) nuclear power plant in Estonia.

Fermi Energia aims to build a nuclear power plant in Estonia with two 300 MW small modular reactors to ensure weather-independent and emission-free electricity production for the coming decades.

"We are pleased to support Fermi Energia in the development of their small modular reactor project. The task of TVONS is to bring experience and practical solutions to the project that will contribute to its safe and efficient implementation," said Ari Leppanen, CEO of TVO Nuclear Services.

Fermi Energia believes that incorporating Finnish nuclear energy experience is a crucial component for the project's progress. The TVO Group's experience in implementing large nuclear projects, operating power plants, and its strong safety culture provide a solid foundation for the planning and execution of Estonia's small modular reactor project.

The companies share a common goal of strengthening the role of nuclear energy as part of clean energy production in the Baltic region and improving long-term security of supply.

"Under the cooperation agreement, we have launched the next phase of work and will report on the project's progress at appropriate stages," said Henri Ormus, a board member of Fermi Energia.

TVONS is a subsidiary of Teollisuuden Voima Oyj (TVO), the operator of the Olkiluoto nuclear power plant. The company brings its long-term and diverse experience from Olkiluoto to the Estonian project. TVO has been generating electricity from nuclear power since 1978 and has extensive experience in planning and managing new nuclear facilities, both from the perspective of the client and the future plant operator.

In the Estonian project, TVONS's expertise will cover the main project phases, from project initiation and permit preparation to the assessment of supply and construction models, as well as supporting the plant's commissioning and operational readiness.

In its advisory role, TVONS will leverage TVO's extensive experience from its own projects, including the recently completed Olkiluoto 3 reactor, which began regular electricity production in 2023. Additionally, TVONS will draw on international projects carried out in recent years, which have strengthened the company's understanding of global best practices and increased its relevant expertise.

The aim of the cooperation is to ensure that the Fermi Energia project progresses in accordance with international requirements, good industry practices, and safety standards.