Čakste: As electricity consumption rises, nuclear energy will become inevitable
Latvenergo's CEO predicts that by 2040, no country will be able to do without nuclear energy if current electricity consumption trends continue.
In a recent interview with Latvijas Radio, Mārtiņš Čakste, the CEO of AS 'Latvenergo,' emphasized that if the current trends in electricity consumption continue, nuclear energy will be a necessity for every country after 2040. He pointed out the increasing electrification levels and the significant energy demands generated by technologies such as artificial intelligence. According to Čakste, renewable energy sources like wind and solar alone will not suffice to meet these demands.
Furthermore, the Minister of Climate and Energy, Kaspars Melnis, commented on the public resistance to the construction of wind farms in Latvia, raising concerns about societal acceptance of nuclear power plants. He noted that if the public is opposed to onshore wind farms, it will be challenging to gain support for the establishment of nuclear facilities, which require suitable infrastructure, including power lines. The minister highlighted that a nuclear power plant cannot be located in isolated areas but must be in places with essential infrastructure to facilitate its operation.
Melnis also hinted at challenges beyond public acceptance, indicating that ensuring the necessary infrastructure and addressing safety concerns would be key factors in the future decisions surrounding nuclear energy in Latvia. As debates around energy sources continue, it remains essential for both policymakers and the public to engage in discussions about the future of Latvia's energy policy and the potential role of nuclear energy.