Slovakia's Mochovce nuclear plant loads fuel into fourth reactor unit

Slovenské elektrárne has started loading nuclear fuel into the fourth unit of the Mochovce Nuclear Power Plant. The first fuel assembly was placed in the reactor on 29 June at 15:45 local time. This step marks a significant stage in the plant’s expansion and Slovakia’s energy development. Construction of the Mochovce plant began in 1982 for the first two units, with units 3 and 4 starting in 1986. Unit 3 entered commercial operation in October 2023. The Nuclear Regulatory Authority of the Slovak Republic granted permission for commissioning the new unit on 22 May.

Once all fuel is loaded, active reactor tests will begin. The commissioning process will involve gradually increasing power levels, followed by a 144-hour demonstration run at full capacity. Each unit at Mochovce can supply 13% of Slovakia’s electricity needs when fully operational. Prime Minister Robert Fico stated that Slovakia is now a world leader in nuclear energy. Branislav Strýček, CEO of Slovenské elektrárne, described the fourth unit as a key chapter in the country’s energy sector. The new unit is set to strengthen Slovakia’s electricity supply significantly.