Helsinki explores small modular reactors to supply district heating
Helsinki is testing a 50-megawatt heat prototype SMR that could replace part of its fossil-fuel heating supply.
Helsinki intends to incorporate small modular reactors into its district-heating system, targeting a reduction in fossil-fuel use. The pilot LDR-50 unit, capable of delivering 50 MW of heat, is under construction in the former Salmisaari coal-plant turbine hall and presently operates with electric heating elements to allow full-scale testing of cooling and safety features. Unlike conventional nuclear plants, the SMR will supply heat directly to the city’s water-based heating grid without generating electricity, operating at roughly 150 °C. City energy provider Helen is evaluating a broader 400-500 MW SMR scheme that could involve one larger or several smaller reactors, with three potential sites identified: the Salmisaari area, the eastern Vuosaari energy-port district, and Norrberget near Östersundom.
Environmental and site assessments, as well as the selection of reactor technology, remain pending. The initiative is backed by financing from the European Investment Bank for development and licensing, and commercial deployment is projected for the 2030s.
Why it matters
The plan could reshape urban heating by using nuclear heat, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
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