Poland has taken a step forward in its nuclear energy programme with the approval of preparatory works for the country’s first nuclear power plant (NPP). The Pomeranian Voivode (local governor), has issued a permit to state-owned Polskie Elektrownie Jądrowe (PEJ) for the initial stage of site development at Lubiatowo-Kopalino in the Choczewo municipality of Pomerania.
The permit covers surveying, construction of temporary facilities, fencing, vegetation clearance and terrain levelling across an area of about 330 hectares. Preparatory works will begin with staking out the site, while archaeological checks and inspections for unexploded ordnance will continue in parallel. Tree and shrub removal is scheduled to begin in late October or early November and is expected to be completed by spring 2026.
PEJ said the authorisation follows more than 18 months of environmental and geological studies, including the relocation of protected plant and animal species, in line with requirements set by the General Director for Environmental Protection. Geological surveys at the site have been ongoing since 2023.
“The beginning of preparatory works is an important landmark in our project,” said PEJ President Marek Woszczyk, noting the cooperation of regional authorities in keeping the project on schedule.
In November 2022, the Polish government selected Westinghouse AP1000 reactor technology for the project. In September 2023, PEJ signed an engineering services contract with Westinghouse and Bechtel to finalise a site-specific design. The plant will consist of three AP1000 units built by the Westinghouse-Bechtel consortium.
According to Poland’s draft Nuclear Energy Programme, the first reactor is planned to begin commercial operation in 2033. The total investment is estimated at PLN 192 billion (USD 49 billion), making it one of the largest infrastructure projects in the country’s history.
