Czech energy company ČEZ has said that experts have examined the subsoil at the planned site for a small modular reactor (SMR) at the Temelín Nuclear Power Plant, a few hundred metres from the road linking Hluboká and Týn nad Vltavou. On-site experts determined the type and integrity of rocks by measuring electrical resistances and monitoring the rate of seismic wave propagation from a special vibrating source. They verified the first results using 30-metre-deep wells.

“We want to introduce completely specific conditions to those interested in construction. We are sure that this is a maximally suitable location, but before any such important building, it is necessary to know exactly the geological conditions and other factors that may affect the project,” said Tomáš Pleskač, ČEZ Board member and Director of the New Energy Division.

The condition for construction will be issue of a licence for a first of its kind facility. However, ČEZ believes Temelín will become a model for other localities which are considering replacing existing coal resources. “From our point of view, it is not just a clean and safe source of electricity or heat. I assume that this technology will become a stable part of the future energy mix in Europe. And for us, it is an opportunity for a training and training centre to be established here,” noted Martin Cuba, Governor of the South Bohemian Region.

ČEZ, Jihočeský kraj and ÚJV Řež are shareholders in the South Bohemian Nuclear Park (Jihočeský nuclear park), which is involved in the coordination and communication of training. The final investor should be ČEZ Group, which has already signed memoranda on cooperation in SMR development with NuScale, GE Hitachi, Rolls Royce, EDF, KHNP and Holtec. It is also negotiating the project with US-based Westinghouse and through its subsidiary. ÚJV Řež, is working intensively on SMR development. The South Bohemian Nuclear Park was founded in 2022 as a joint project of ČEZ, ÚJV Řež, and the South Bohemian Region, to undertake research, development, communication and construction preparation.

Image: The geological surveys used 30-metre-deep boreholes to examine the composition of rock at the site (courtesy of ČEZ)