Licensing of nuclear facilities

The use of nuclear energy is not permitted without the appropriate license. The Nuclear Energy Act (990/1987) sets out the requirements for licensing procedures, regulatory oversight and competent authorities for the use of nuclear energy. STUK’s duty is to ensure that the safety requirements are fulfilled and to provide assessments and statements of the safety of the project during the various phases of the license process.

The licensing of a nuclear installation starts with an environmental impact assessment. This is followed by suitability studies, decision in principle, preparatory phase, construction permit and construction. An operating licence must be applied for in order to use the plant.

The Government decides on the licensing of a nuclear installation and the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment manages the licensing process. STUK, as the supervisory authority, issues its safety statement on the licence.