Slovenia’s parliament has officially canceled a planned referendum on the construction of a new nuclear power plant, known as the JEK2 project, which was set to take place on November 24, 2024. This decision comes after significant public and political scrutiny regarding the legality and transparency of the referendum process.
Key Takeaways
- The referendum on the JEK2 nuclear project was canceled due to legal challenges and public criticism.
- Lawmakers expressed concerns about voters’ ability to make an informed decision.
- The government plans to prepare a special law for the JEK2 project, with a potential future referendum in 2028.
Background of the JEK2 Project
The JEK2 project aims to construct one or two new nuclear power units adjacent to Slovenia’s existing Krško nuclear power plant. This facility currently provides approximately one-third of Slovenia’s electricity and is co-owned with Croatia. The proposed new plant is expected to have a capacity of up to 2400 MW.
Reasons for Cancellation
The cancellation of the referendum was influenced by several factors:
- Legal Challenges: Environmental groups and experts raised concerns about the legality of the referendum, prompting lawmakers to reconsider.
- Public Criticism: There were widespread criticisms regarding the referendum question, which asked voters if they supported the JEK2 project as a means to ensure a stable electricity supply.
- Informed Decision-Making: Lawmakers, including Slovenia’s President Natasa Pirc Musar, emphasized the need for more comprehensive information before allowing the public to vote on such a significant issue.
Political Reactions
The decision to cancel the referendum has elicited varied responses from political parties:
- Freedom Movement: The ruling party stated that the cancellation does not signify the end of the JEK2 project. They plan to draft a special law to facilitate the project’s implementation and ensure public participation.
- Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS): Initially supportive of the referendum, the SDS has since expressed opposition, citing concerns over undisclosed analyses regarding the costs of alternative energy sources.
Future Prospects
Despite the cancellation, the government remains committed to the JEK2 project. Key points regarding its future include:
- New Legislation: A special law will be developed to streamline the project’s execution and address public concerns.
- Future Referendum: A new referendum is anticipated by 2028, when more detailed information about the project will be available.
- Economic Considerations: The estimated cost of the JEK2 project ranges from EUR 9.5 billion to EUR 15.4 billion, depending on the capacity chosen.
Conclusion
The cancellation of the referendum on Slovenia’s new nuclear power plant reflects the complexities surrounding energy policy and public opinion. As the government prepares for future discussions and potential votes, the focus will remain on ensuring transparency and informed decision-making among citizens. The JEK2 project, while currently on hold, is poised to be a significant topic in Slovenia’s energy future.
Sources
- Slovenia’s referendum on new nuclear cancelled, World Nuclear News.
- Slovenia cancels referendum on new nuclear plant, Reuters.
