In the nuclear sector, work is done for the overall benefit of society

Finland is a country where the functioning of society is based on pragmatism, perseverance, and keeping promises. This is especially evident in the nuclear power sector. Although the industry has faced challenges and pressures for change over the decades, Finland has stuck to effective solutions, whereas countries like Germany and Sweden have pursued alternatives that have proven inefficient. Sweden, however, is now turning back toward nuclear power. The success of Finnish nuclear energy is no coincidence—it is the result of long-term effort, collaboration, and a safety-oriented operational culture.

Economic Challenges and the Need for Structural Solutions

The state of Finland’s public finances has long been a topic of public debate. Debt accumulation has continued, the working-age population is shrinking, and productivity growth is slow. At the end of November 2025, Finland entered the EU’s excessive deficit procedure—a clear signal that the current trajectory is unsustainable. Now, just after Independence Day, it is worth remembering the sacrifices made by previous generations. Our current well-being is built on those foundations—and with it comes the responsibility to safeguard it for the future.
In such a situation, attention inevitably turns to the sectors where Finland can be a pioneer, strong, and attractive. The nuclear power industry is one of these.

Comprehensive Reform of the Nuclear Energy Act Creates Opportunities

There is a lot happening in the nuclear sector right now. The government, the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, the radiation authority, license holders, and industry stakeholders are jointly working on a comprehensive reform of the Nuclear Energy Act. The primary goal of the reform is to ensure that the use of nuclear energy continues to serve the overall benefit of society, that operational safety remains at a high level, and that waste management is carried out responsibly and appropriately in Finland.
At the same time, the aim is to accelerate the implementation of nuclear facility projects and improve the cost-efficiency of production. One of the most significant changes is the shift from detailed regulation to a risk-based model. This means that operators can allocate resources more flexibly to areas that deliver the greatest safety benefit. In this way, the reform can enhance productivity in the nuclear sector—and productivity growth is exactly what Finland’s economy needs right now.
Developing the regulatory framework also makes Finland a more attractive investment environment for future nuclear power projects, which in turn can create jobs and stable long-term growth.

Small Reactors Open a New Era

Concrete steps in the development of small reactor technology are already visible in Finland, with several projects currently in various stages of preparation. In particular, Helen’s nuclear energy program has brought into public discussion the idea of considering nuclear power as a solution for urban heat production, and the company is actively exploring the prerequisites for a nuclear investment. The letters of intent signed with Kuopio Energy and Kerava Energy also demonstrate the breadth of interest. At the same time, Fortum has continued modernizing its existing nuclear capacity and launched studies on the role of nuclear energy in the future energy system. Based on these studies, investments in district heating reactors appear potentially market-driven without state subsidies—unlike many current solutions focused on electricity generation.

Expertise in Final Disposal Is an Opportunity for Finland, Not Just an Obligation

Perhaps the most challenging—and at the same time most intriguing—opportunity lies in the final disposal of spent nuclear fuel. Posiva is implementing the world’s first disposal solution in Eurajoki. Decades of work have gone into ensuring safety, and the finish line is now in sight.
Currently, Finnish legislation prohibits the import and disposal of foreign nuclear waste, but during the reform process, there have been proposals to reassess this stance. Behind this is a massive global market worth up to €400 billion. The question is: if we can trust our system once, why couldn’t we trust it multiple times?

Growth Requires the Courage to Be a Pioneer

In many ways, Finland’s nuclear sector is alert and forward-looking. Safety remains at the core, but alongside it, the economic perspective is becoming increasingly prominent. If we want to harness the full potential of the industry—in small reactors, investments, and final disposal—we need courage. Not cautious following, but the ability to lead the way.
Finland has made decisions before that required perseverance and determination. Now, the nuclear sector once again faces a moment when bold, forward-thinking decisions can shape the future for decades to come.

Text: Ariel Aatsinki, Expert – Nuclear Technology, Platom