Vlček: The EU Energy Action Plan Lacks Specificity; We Require Targeted Solutions

Brussels – The Czech Minister of Industry and Trade, Lukáš Vlček, has expressed concerns regarding the European Commission’s recently unveiled action plan for affordable energy, calling it overly general and lacking ambition. During a meeting in Brussels, he emphasized that the plan aims to lower energy costs for both businesses and consumers, complete the energy union, stimulate investments, and enhance preparedness for potential energy crises. European Commissioner for Energy, Dan Jørgensen, stated that the initiative aims to save Europeans €45 billion (1.1 trillion CZK) this year, with projections of annual savings rising to €260 billion (6.5 trillion CZK) by 2040.

“High energy prices are a concern for both Czech and European households and industries. While I appreciate initiatives aimed at reducing energy costs, I am worried that the action plan lacks specific and ambitious solutions,” Vlček remarked. He insisted that the general framework needs to be translated into tangible actions.

“We envision the future of energy as a combination of nuclear and renewable resources. In this context, it is encouraging that the European Commission is prioritizing licensing for small modular reactors and reevaluating investment needs for nuclear energy development,” he added, highlighting that revising and simplifying public support regulations will be crucial for the Czech Republic, with expectations for the European Commission to present these changes by mid-year.

“We aim to shift the narrative around nuclear energy and streamline the public support notification process,” concluded Vlček, who also stressed the importance of ensuring energy security across the continent and enhancing market transparency in the energy sector.

The Czech Republic is part of a nuclear alliance that includes countries like France and Sweden. Minister Vlček participated in a meeting of this alliance earlier today. “We believe that nuclear energy is an intriguing topic and could see a renaissance. Not only is the Czech Republic planning large nuclear power plants, but we also support the development of small modular reactors,” he stated. “It is vital that nuclear energy is recognized as a clean energy source,” he added. (March 17)