Latvia eyes electricity from Belarus nuclear plant
RIGA -
Latvia’s electricity transmission system operator, AST, is looking at the possibility of purchasing electricity from the soon-to-be completed Belarusian nuclear power plant in Astravets, long criticised by the Lithuanian government, Belsat TV has reported.
According to the Latvian media, the Latvian government is seeking to mitigate the risk of a possible drop in electricity supplies given that energy trading between the Baltic states and third parties is currently carried out only through the Belarusian-Lithuanian border, including Latvian imports from Lithuania.
If AST starts importing electricity from the Belarusian plant to Latvia, the energy is expected to enter the Lithuanian market as well.
The Lithuanian government has repeatedly criticised the nuclear power over national security and environmental safety concerns, as well as a number of emergencies that took place during construction.
The first Astravets reactor, which is being built close to the Lithuanian border in the Hrodno region, is expected to be operational by the end of 2019.
Related News
U.S. Renewable and Clean Energy Industries Set Sights on Market Majority
WASHINGTON - Within a decade, more than half of the electricity generated in the U.S. will come from clean, renewable resources supported by energy storage, according to a joint commitment today from the American wind, solar, hydropower, and energy storage industries. The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), National Hydropower Association (NHA), and Energy Storage Association (ESA) have agreed to actively collaborate across their industry segments to achieve this target.
The four industries have released a set of joint advocacy principles that will enable them to realize this bold vision of a majority renewables grid. Along with…
