Czech Republic Plans to Extend Operation of Dukovany Nuclear Plant to 80 Years PRAGUE, April 9, 2026
The Czech Republic announced plans to extend the operational lifespan of its oldest nuclear power plant, Dukovany, to up to 80 years, potentially keeping the Soviet-era facility running until 2065-2067.
## Aging Infrastructure and Long-Term Plans The Dukovany nuclear power plant, located in the Vysočina Region, consists of four reactor blocks of the Soviet WWER-440/213 type, which were connected to the grid between 1985 and 1987. Originally designed for a 30-40 year lifespan, the plant has already undergone multiple upgrades to ensure its continued operation. The latest proposal would push its operational timeline to an unprecedented 80 years, a move that has drawn both support and criticism.
The Czech government has framed the extension as a necessary step to ensure energy security and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The country has long depended on nuclear power for a significant portion of its electricity, with Dukovany alone accounting for roughly 20% of domestic production. Officials argue that extending the plant’s life will provide stability as the nation transitions to newer energy sources.
## Environmental and International Concerns Environmental groups, particularly those in neighboring Austria, have strongly opposed the plan, labeling the Dukovany plant as outdated and dangerous. Austria, which has long been critical of nuclear energy, has raised alarms about the safety risks associated with aging reactors. The plant’s proximity to the Austrian border has further heightened tensions, with Austrian activists calling for stricter international oversight.
The Czech Republic, however, has dismissed these concerns, emphasizing that the plant meets all current safety standards. The government has pointed to ongoing modernization efforts, including upgrades to cooling systems and emergency protocols, as evidence of its commitment to safe operation.
## Expansion and Future Projects In addition to extending the life of the existing reactors, the Czech Republic is moving forward with plans to build two new nuclear reactors at the Dukovany site. Last year, the South Korean energy company KHNP was awarded the contract for the project, which is expected to bolster the country’s energy capacity in the coming decades. The new reactors are part of a broader strategy to modernize the nation’s nuclear infrastructure while maintaining its role as a key energy producer in Central Europe.
The dual approach—extending the old plant while constructing new reactors—reflects the Czech government’s balancing act between immediate energy needs and long-term sustainability. Critics argue that the focus should shift entirely to renewable energy, but officials maintain that nuclear power remains an essential component of the energy mix.
As the debate continues, the future of Dukovany will likely remain a contentious issue, both domestically and internationally. The plant’s extended operation and the construction of new reactors underscore the Czech Republic’s commitment to nuclear energy, even as neighboring countries push for alternative solutions.