The Polish Economic Institute is embarking on a research project to evaluate the interest of Polish companies in contributing to the construction of the nation’s inaugural nuclear power plant.
Evaluating Industrial Potential and Addressing Company Needs
The study, commissioned by Polskie Elektrownie Jądrowe (PEJ) in collaboration with Bank Gospodarstwa Krajowego, aims to ascertain the capacity of Polish industry to meet the demands of the nuclear power plant project in Pomerania.
Additionally, it will explore solutions that cater to the needs of companies interested in participating in the investment, such as financial support mechanisms or assistance in obtaining necessary certifications.
Insights to Guide Investment Decisions
PEJ stated that analysis of the study’s findings will enable them to understand the level of interest among Polish companies in participating in the construction of the first nuclear power plant in Pomerania.
It will also reveal the tools required for companies to engage in the planned supply chain.
Poland’s Ambitious Nuclear Energy Plans
Poland currently has significant plans to expand its nuclear energy capacity. In September 2021, it was announced that six large pressurized water reactors with a combined installed capacity of 6-9 GWe could be operational by 2040, as part of the country’s strategy to reduce its reliance on coal.
The timeline envisions construction of the first nuclear power plant commencing in 2026, with the initial reactor—with a capacity of 1.0-1.6 GWe—coming online in 2033. Subsequent units are planned to be implemented every 2-3 years.
The coastal towns of Lubiatowo and Kopalino in Poland’s Choczewo municipality in the province of Pomerania were designated as the preferred site for the country’s first large-scale nuclear power plant.
Westinghouse Technology Selected for First Plant
In November 2022, the Polish government announced that the first plant, with a capacity of 3750 MWe, will be constructed in Pomerania utilizing AP1000 technology from the US-based Westinghouse.
An agreement outlining a plan for the plant’s delivery was signed in May of the previous year by Westinghouse, Bechtel, and PEJ.
Identifying Opportunities and Overcoming Barriers for Polish Companies
The Polish Economic Institute, a public economic think tank, in direct collaboration with the investor, PEJ, will examine the potential level of interest among Polish companies in participating in this endeavor.
They will also identify any obstacles that may hinder their involvement. The analysis will serve as the foundation for developing targeted actions to support interested companies and suppliers, enabling them to participate competitively in the supply chain.
Survey Methodology and Implementation
The study will be conducted through a survey comprising several dozen detailed questions. The survey is open to all companies interested in contributing to the construction of a Polish nuclear power plant.
The Polish Economic Institute, with its extensive analytical expertise in the field of nuclear energy, will be responsible for implementing the survey and subsequently analyzing the results.
Qualitative Research and Industry Consultation Inform Study Design
“The detailed study takes into account the specificities of the sector and was preceded by qualitative research and consultations with industry stakeholders,” explained Adam Juszczak from the Polish Economic Institute.
“The current stage, the quantitative study, will allow us to gather detailed information and opinions from entrepreneurs in this industry, regardless of their size or area of operation.”
Hopes for Broad Participation and Comprehensive Insights
Juszczak added, “We hope that the study will receive a substantial response from Polish companies, enabling us to create a comprehensive picture of the challenges they face on the eve of launching this strategic investment.
We also aim to estimate the potential participation of domestic entities in the entire process, considering international legal regulations.”
Investment Opportunities for Polish Entrepreneurs
“The investment we are undertaking represents a tremendous opportunity not only for the country but also for numerous Polish entrepreneurs,” stated Leszek Juchniewicz, President of the Management Board of PEJ.
“Therefore, we want them to have the chance to participate in the supply chain for the entire nuclear project.
To this end, we decided to investigate their approach to business cooperation in this domain. The study will help determine the current level of knowledge among Polish companies, their preparedness for the investment, as well as potential barriers and limitations.”