Kuopion Energia Taps AFRY for SMR Site Feasibility and Environmental Study Ahead of 2035 Heating Upgrade

Kuopion Energia Taps AFRY for SMR Site Feasibility and Environmental Study Ahead of 2035 Heating Upgrade

(IN BRIEF) Kuopion Energia is exploring SMRs to replace its Haapaniemi CHP plant by 2035 and has engaged AFRY to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment and constructability study, with results due in spring 2027. This next phase follows AFRY’s earlier site-location study. The constructability work will assess soil and bedrock stability through deep percussion drilling, while the EIA will evaluate environmental and nuclear safety impacts and include public consultations. The EIA is also necessary for submitting a Decision-in-Principle application to the Finnish Government. SMRs are attractive for their low-carbon profile and stable fuel costs, helping Kuopion Energia plan a sustainable district heating solution.

(PRESS RELEASE) SOLNA, 10-Jul-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — AFRY has been commissioned by Kuopion Energia to conduct both an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and a constructability study for the potential deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs) as a low-carbon district heating solution in Kuopio. The results of these studies are expected in spring 2027.

Kuopion Energia’s current combined heat and power plant in Haapaniemi will reach end-of-life around 2035, requiring a decision on its replacement by 2030. SMRs—valued for their stable fuel pricing and minimal carbon emissions—are one of the key options under review. Building on AFRY’s earlier location feasibility study, the new constructability analysis will examine site suitability through geological and geotechnical investigations, including deep percussion drilling below the intended plant depth. Simultaneously, the EIA will assess impacts on air, water, soil, fauna and flora, as well as nuclear and radiation safety, and will incorporate public hearings and stakeholder consultations. This assessment is also a prerequisite for submitting a Decision-in-Principle application to the Finnish Government.

“Small modular reactors are seen in Kuopio as a promising solution for energy production due to very low carbon emissions and the stability of fuel pricing,” said Esa Lindholm, CEO of Kuopion Energia. Ilkka Suntio, Project Manager at AFRY, emphasized that “extensive nature surveys and specialized nuclear modeling are integral to the EIA,” while Petri Turtiainen, Development Manager at Kuopion Energia, noted that “thorough assessments help reduce uncertainty and prevent surprises during project execution.”

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Media Contacts:

Maria Palo, Head of Nuclear Business Unit Finland, AFRY
maria.palo@afry.com

Mia Brunila, Head of Communications, Global Division Energy, AFRY
mia.brunila@afry.com

SOURCE: AFRY