Slovakia is taking another step towards greater energy self-sufficiency. The fourth unit of the Mochovce nuclear power plant has started supplying electricity to the national grid. The head of Slovenské elektrárne says the country has every reason to be proud.
Prime Minister Robert Fico (SMER-SD) says Slovakia will be able to export large amounts of electricity from next year, turning the country into an energy powerhouse. He adds that, once the unit reaches full capacity, it will cover around 13 percent of Slovakia’s electricity consumption. The fourth unit is currently operating at 19 percent of its capacity. According to Marta Žiaková, head of the Nuclear Regulatory Authority, it could reach full capacity around the turn of the year.
Economy Minister Denisa Saková (HLAS-SD) says Slovakia is also well placed to distribute electricity across the region, thanks to its extensive transmission network and connections with Poland, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Ukraine. She adds that around 85 percent of the country’s energy mix already comes from low-carbon sources.
But greater energy self-sufficiency does not necessarily mean cheaper electricity for consumers. Energy analyst Andrej Lednár agrees that the new unit strengthens Slovakia’s energy independence. However, he warns that it is unlikely to have a direct impact on electricity prices, which continue to be influenced by the European market.
The government says household electricity prices are expected to remain at around 79 euros per megawatt-hour in 2027, under a memorandum between the state and Slovenské elektrárne.
Source: STVR, TASR
