Latvia’s Ministry of Climate and Energy (KEM) plans to assess the feasibility of developing nuclear energy in the country, commissioning a study for 1.425 million euros. The assessment will focus on the potential for small modular reactor (SMR) technology and is planned to be tendered in February.
Nuclear Energy Development Assessment
The overarching goal of the assessment is to provide a data-driven analysis to inform policymaking regarding SMR nuclear energy in Latvia. The winning bidder will conduct an in-depth evaluation covering technical, legal, environmental, societal, financial, and economic aspects.
The contractor will also evaluate the existing regulatory framework and propose improvements to ensure compliance with international nuclear energy requirements. This includes identifying necessary amendments to Latvian legislation across a wide range of areas, including radiation protection, nuclear facility safety, emergency preparedness, and waste management.
The study will also assess nuclear safety and radiation safety, potential geographical locations for a nuclear power plant (NPP), electricity grid development, and the availability of qualified personnel. A cost-benefit analysis of introducing nuclear energy in Latvia will also be included.
The contract performance period is one year, with specific deliverables scheduled throughout. A detailed work plan is due within one month of signing, followed by an assessment of the current situation within three months. A technical SMR assessment is due within eight months, and an economic assessment, including a cost-benefit analysis, within ten months. The final deliverable, consolidating all findings and proposals, is due within one year.
Payment will be phased, with 10% for the first deliverable, 20% each for the second, third, and fourth, and 30% for the final report.
Collaboration with Estonia
The government instructed KEM in May 2025 to begin preparations for a nuclear energy program and to assess cooperation opportunities with Estonia regarding the construction and operation of a nuclear power plant. KEM has contacted Estonia’s Ministry of Climate regarding Estonia’s nuclear energy development plans.
Estonia has already launched studies aligned with International Atomic Energy Agency guidelines, assessing radiation safety, nuclear safety, emergency preparedness, and legal frameworks. Estonia is also developing a national special spatial plan and a strategic environmental impact assessment for a potential 600-megawatt nuclear power plant, with site selection planned for 2026 and a detailed assessment by 2029. Latvia will participate in cross-border consultations on this plan.
Previous Research and Considerations
KEM has conducted its own research and consulted with consultancy firms on the scope of the study, which will assess the legal, technical, and economic aspects of suitable SMR technologies for Latvia. Preliminary calculations suggest that an SMR-based plant could be competitive in electricity pricing, but a broader assessment of factors is ongoing.
KEM noted that managing high-level radioactive waste and spent nuclear fuel is a particularly important consideration for Latvia, as studies on establishing a geological repository have not yet been conducted. Facilities for storing low- and intermediate-level radioactive waste would also need to be assessed and potentially established.
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