On 28 January 2014 the Council of Ministers passed a resolution regarding the Polish Nuclear Power Program, developed by the Ministry of Economy. The Program sets forth a list of tasks ensuring safe use of nuclear power in Poland.
The PNP Program includes a schedule for the construction of two nuclear power plants, together with the establishment of a regulatory and organizational environment for the investment. The document specifies the roles and scope of responsibility for a variety of institutions responsible for the implementation of the Program and covers the issues of ensuring nuclear safety and radiation protection. The Program also includes: economic rationale for the introduction of nuclear power in Poland, available methods of its financing and spent nuclear fuel and radioactive waste management methods.
The approval of the PNP Program marks the beginning of a long-term process. The introduction of nuclear power does not only entail the construction of nuclear power plants, complementing the Polish energy mix with nuclear sources. It also provides an impulse for economic, social and regional development. The highest nuclear standards will have a beneficial influence on the technical culture of the Polish industry and energy sector. The development of industrial and research infrastructure will contribute to creation of a new sector, offering employment opportunities to top experts.
According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, the introduction of nuclear power requires between 10 and 15 years of preparatory work, including the construction of the first nuclear power plant. In the Polish case, it is also required to set up an extensive infrastructure supporting the development and operation of nuclear power (including regulations, organization, institutions, research and industrial facilities, training system).
Source: Ministry of Economy, Poland (mg.gov.pl)
