Kärnfull Next is taking the next step in the development of small modular reactors (SMRs) in Blekinge by signing cooperation agreements with landowners to conduct feasibility studies on two properties in Elleholm and Guö-Köpegårda respectively, located in Karlshamn Municipality.

 

The decision is based, in part, on the extensive location analysis carried out by Region Blekinge. In this study, Kärnfull Next contributed its expertise and data to identify suitable sites for new nuclear power production in the county.

 

As part of the feasibility study process, Karlshamn has now emerged as a new candidate location within the SMR program Re:Firm South, joining previously announced projects in Valdemarsvik, Motala, and Nyköping.

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Over the past year, Karlshamn has been recognized as a strategically important site for new nuclear power in Sweden. The municipality has, among other things, received funding from the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency (Naturvårdsverket) to investigate the possibilities for new nuclear energy production.

 

Additionally, Region Blekinge’s analysis highlights the area as one of the most promising in the country for establishing SMRs. The national coordinator for new nuclear power, Carl Berglöf, recently stated that Karlshamn could rank among the top 10 potential locations for future reactor projects.

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“Karlshamn has several advantages that make it a strong candidate for new nuclear power. The existing energy infrastructure, grid connectivity, and the regional industry’s need for a stable power supply are factors that make Elleholm and Guö-Köpegårda particularly interesting for further analysis,” said John Eliasson, Head of Business Development at Kärnfull Next.

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Kärnfull Next’s feasibility studies under Re:Firm South include technical, environmental, societal and economic evaluations of the two properties – both of which have been rated as prime locations ("A-läge") in Region Blekinge’s location analysis.

 

The process is being conducted in dialogue with Karlshamn Municipality and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that the project aligns with both local and national energy goals.

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“We look forward to deepening our analyses and exploring how SMRs can contribute to a sustainable and stable energy supply in Blekinge. Through our work, we are creating the conditions for Karlshamn to become an important part of Sweden’s future fossil-free energy system,” Eliasson concluded.