TV-channel MTV3 reports that the Federation of Finnish Technology Industries thinks all three applicants should be given a licence to build a new nuclear power plant. According to the Federation, three licences would ensure there availability of reasonably priced electricity.

The Ministry of Employment and the Economy is proposing only one licence.

Martti Mäenpää, CEO of the Federation of Finnish Technology Industries, does not comprehend the stand of the Ministry. Mr Mäenpää states that the Finnish industry needs to have certainty that there will be sufficient supply of reasonably priced energy and electricity in the long term.

According to the Federation, three nuclear power plants could ensure Finland’s self-sufficiency in electricity production. Mr Mäenpää points out that it is a question of national security that 15 per cent of electricity must now be imported from Russia.