In Krško

Construction of new nuclear reactor on the brink of collapse

A referendum could prevent the new plant from being built.

(Bild: Rojsek-Wiedergut Uta)

The expansion of another reactor at the Krško nuclear power plant in Slovenia is unlikely to go ahead. A referendum could ruin the plans of energy giant GEN energija - to the delight of environmentalists and Austrian politicians.

For several years now, attempts have been made by hook or by crook to build another reactor at the ancient Krško nuclear power plant. But this is unlikely to happen. After secret tape recordings were published in which Slovenian politicians campaigned for the expansion and sought democratic loopholes, public support for the expansion has wavered. This was also noticed by some parties in the Slovenian parliament. 

Referendum to be stopped
Several parties have therefore tabled a motion to stop the planned referendum. Approval is to be given tomorrow, Thursday. And with the decision, the plans for the expansion would have to be put on hold.

Numerous environmental organizations are also responsible for this success - including Greenpeace. "The fact that the massive expansion plans in Krško are now on the brink of being shelved with the probable rejection of the referendum is a great success for environmental protection in Slovenia," says Jasmin Duregger, climate and energy expert at Greenpeace Austria. It would also eliminate a safety risk for the Austrian population. After all, the scrap metal reactor is only 70 kilometers from the Austrian border.