What triggered Sweden’s shift from a nuclear phase-out to building new reactors?

Sweden's policy turnaround was driven by 2040, a combination of factors: the push for a fossil-free power system by 2040, extreme weather exposing the need for firm power, power transfer constraints between the north and south, volatile electricity prices and rising energy security concerns.

How will nuclear new builds help Sweden solve grid bottlenecks and price volatility?

Nuclear supports Sweden's grid stability by unlocking more capacity on existing lines. It also enables new consumption more reliable than from intermittent renewables without constant grid expansion.

What role will SMRs play in Sweden, and when could they realistically arrive?

Conventional light-water SMRs are seen as the nearest-term option because the technology is relatively proven for experienced nuclear nations, though supply chain readiness could slow progress. If plans hold, Sweden could have SMRs operating before the mid-2030s, while advanced designs remain further from commercial rollout.

How is Sweden accelerating investments and deployment for new nuclear projects?

A new state-backed financing model provides certainty for investors in the Swedish nuclear landscape. Sweden has also proposed a new licensing pathway that would guarantee clarity for projects earlier on, potentially cutting years of uncertainty before detailed permitting begins.

Power Technology

SSE and Equinor’s 900MW Keadby hydrogen plant progresses to next stage

Plans for a 900 MW hydrogen-capable power station at Keadby in North Lincolnshire have entered the next stage after being…

Tracey September 30 2025

Plans for a 900 MW hydrogen-capable power station at Keadby in North Lincolnshire have entered the next stage after being formally accepted for review by the UK Government’s Planning Inspectorate.

The proposed Keadby Next Generation Power Station, led by SSE and Equinor, is designed to operate on natural gas and hydrogen, with the flexibility to run on blends until low-carbon hydrogen supplies are available at scale. Developers aim to have the facility operational by 2030, positioning it as one of the world’s earliest large-scale hydrogen-fired power plants.

Located near the Humber estuary, the project is closely aligned with emerging hydrogen production and storage initiatives in the region, including plans for a broader Humber hydrogen network. It is intended to provide reliable low-carbon electricity to back up a renewables-led power system, supporting the UK’s wider decarbonisation strategy.

Keadby has played a shifting role in the country’s energy system over decades, moving from coal to host one of Europe’s most efficient gas-fired plants. The new project adds to SSE’s wider investment in hydrogen development, including its work with Siemens Energy under the Mission H2 Power programme.

The final decision on planning consent will be taken by the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero following examination of the application.