The Norwegian government has established a committee tasked with conducting a comprehensive review and assessment of various aspects related to the potential future establishment of nuclear power in the country. The committee is expected to submit its report by April 1, 2026.
Energy Minister Terje Aasland cited the need for emission-free and stable energy sources to address the natural and climate crisis, meet increasing power demands, and consider technological advancements and plans for nuclear power production by private entities in collaboration with municipalities as reasons for revisiting nuclear power.
Committee Composition and Mandate
The 12-person committee will be led by Kristin Halvorsen, the director of the Centre for International Climate and Environmental Research – Oslo (Cicero).
The Ministry of Energy developed the committee’s mandate in consultation with several other ministries.
The mandate encompasses a broad assessment of complex questions, with committee members selected for their expertise and experience in various fields.
Key Areas of Focus
The committee will examine nuclear power’s suitability for the Norwegian power system, research and technology development in different nuclear power concepts (including fusion), costs and consequences for authorities and private actors, environmental impacts, waste management, nuclear safety, safeguarding and non-proliferation, preparedness, and competence.
It will also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of nuclear power, review existing regulations, and identify necessary regulatory developments and prerequisites for establishing commercial and industry-driven nuclear power.
Knowledge Base and Resource Group
The committee will provide an updated knowledge base on various nuclear power technologies, technological maturity, anticipated timelines for scaling up and commercial availability, and costs.
Additionally, it will account for relevant investment factors and infrastructure requirements, including grid connection needs and suitable location criteria.
A resource group of professionals will be established to assist and provide input to the committee in specific areas.
Norway’s Limited Nuclear Experience
Norway operated four research reactors at the Kjeller and Halden sites between 1951 and 2019, but these were not for power production.
As a result, Norway lacks experience in developing, commercially operating, regulating, and licensing this form of power generation.
Renewed Interest in Nuclear Power
Despite the lack of experience, the government acknowledges that nuclear power has become part of the energy debate, with plans for its development being promoted.
In November 2023, the Ministry of Energy received a notification of proposals for a study program from Norsk Kjernekraft, marking the initial step in the licensing process.
Norsk Kjernekraft aims to construct a nuclear power plant consisting of small modular reactors (SMRs) with a total output of 1500 MW, and other municipalities and county councils have also expressed interest in nuclear power.