In Poland, small modular reactors (SMRs) are proving to be a risky investment, prompting Orlen Synthos Green Energy to seek government funding. The joint venture between Michał Sołowow and Orlen wants the government to subsidize costs if prices fall below a specific threshold, likely above current average rates.
Orlen Synthos Green Energy has formally approached the Minister of Energy to initiate discussions on a support system for constructing a fleet of GE Vernova Hitachi BWRX-300 small modular reactors. The company aims to secure a contract for difference (CfD) for 14 reactors across three sites: Włocławek, Stawy Monowskie near Oświęcim, and Stalowa Wola.
26 Reactors Planned
The company emphasized that the reactors requested are the first phase of a broader program aimed at building 26 BWRX-300 units, consistent with the fundamental approvals already granted by the Polish government.
OSGE has indicated that documentation will be developed to facilitate notifications to the European Commission based on this request.
On June 12, during a presentation regarding updates to Poland’s nuclear program, Deputy Minister of Energy Wojciech Wrochna announced that by the end of the month, a roadmap for the development of SMRs in Poland would be ready, including provisions for potential state support such as the CfD and guarantees. Such public assistance will require approval from the European Commission.
Expected Subsidies
Previously, Orlen Synthos Green Energy stated it anticipates a price range of €115 to €135 for its SMRs. The company would likely seek subsidies if market prices fall below this range.
In comparison, current annual prices for contracts set for 2027 on the Commodity Energy Exchange are approximately 451 PLN per MWh. At these rates, OSGE would already require subsidies, while Respect Energy would not.
