STUK statement on the EIA report on Olkiluoto 4 plant unit: Increase in sea level must be carefully assessed

At this phase of the project, TVO’s report covers the environmental impact of the planned fourth nuclear power plant unit as regards STUK’s activities. STUK states, however, that the EIA report gives neither the range for potential sea level rise estimates, nor the numerical probability estimates for them. In connection with a possible application for a construction licence, STUK will evaluate, based on the most up-to-date data, whether estimated increase in sea level has been adequately taken into account.

STUK’s statement pays attention to the the EIA report being quite brief in describing the impact and civil defence measures of a potential accident. The report focuses on severe accidents although a less severe accident should have been used as a reference as well.

STUK’s opinion is that the implementation of an alternative cooling water solution is still to be considered. Cooling water alternatives are to be looked into and, in view of the facility’s overall safety, not later than in connection with the possible decision-in-principle and an application for a construction licence.

STUK will make radiation and nuclear safety related assessments if the project proceeds to the decision-in-principle consideration phase in accordance with the Nuclear Energy Act and, thereafter, to the construction licence phase. STUK will then make a preliminary safety assessment with a view to the decision-in-principle. An actual safety assessment for the plant project will be made after a possible decision-in-principle has been made and those responsible for the project file an application for a construction licence, submitting the relevant detailed plans and descriptions.

STUK’s statement (in finnish) (pdf)

TVO’s EIA material at the website of the Ministry of Employment and the Economy  

Additional information:
Director Lasse Reiman, tel +358 9 759 88 379
Section Head Olli Vilkamo, tel. + 358 400 817 981