As SVT reported last week, Vattenfall now believes that without major support from the state, such as subsidies or risk sharing, nuclear electricity would cost 90-112 öre/kWh, for a first new reactor.
It is almost twice as high as the Energy Agency’s previous assessment, and means, according to them, that nuclear power would not be profitable.
But the minister believes that if nuclear power fulfills an important function for the electricity system, it may be worth a higher price.
– If the system doesn’t work because we don’t have enough base power, then the weather-dependent power doesn’t work either. Then properties that provide balance need to be compensated in a sensible market way, she tells SVT.
“Delivery security needs to be rewarded”
On this theme, the government presented an investigation on how the electricity market should function on Thursday. It is both about delivery security and how costs for large investments should be distributed. Economist and energy expert Bo Diczfalusy will be the investigator.
Ebba Busch already said the same day that she wants the investigation to suggest that nuclear power – even older ones – should be paid extra for the function of stabilizing the electricity system.
– All types of power that deliver the right characteristics to the system, those that ensure we have enough electricity where it is needed, need to be rewarded for it. And there, of course, nuclear power has a particular advantage.
But even wind power, which is supplemented with modern technology and batteries, can provide equivalent stability. Then it will also be awarded, says Busch.
– This applies to all types of power that contribute to a more robust system.