Swiss nuclear plant Beznau will operate beyond 60 years
Swiss utility Axpo has announced plans to invest an additional CHF350 million (approximately USD400 million) to extend the operation of the Beznau nuclear power plant until 2033.
Switzerland's oldest reactors
The Beznau site houses two 365 MWe Westinghouse pressurized water reactors, making it the oldest nuclear power plant in Switzerland. Unit 1 began operations in 1969, followed by Unit 2 in 1972. Beyond electricity generation, both reactors also supply district heating.
Switzerland does not impose operational life limits on nuclear plants, allowing them to operate as long as they meet stringent safety standards. Earlier this year, Axpo announced plans to run the Beznau reactors for 60 years while also assessing the feasibility of extending operations beyond that timeline.
Switzerland does not impose operational life limits on nuclear plants, allowing them to operate as long as they meet stringent safety standards
Commitment to safety and responsibility
"Axpo has conducted thorough assessments and extensive investigations," the company said. "This process involved consultations with external experts, suppliers, and the supervisory authority ENSI, ensuring that safety remained the highest priority."
Based on these evaluations, Axpo has decided that Unit 2 will remain operational until 2032, with Unit 1 continuing until 2033. Both reactors will then be decommissioned and dismantled. The decision reflects Axpo's commitment to social responsibility and is supported by technical, organizational, regulatory, and economic considerations.
Based on the evaluations, Axpo has decided that Unit 2 will operate until 2032 and Unit 2 until 2033
Investments in longevity
Since their commissioning, Axpo has invested over CHF2.5 billion in retrofitting and modernizing the Beznau units. The new investment of CHF350 million will ensure the safe and reliable operation of the plant through its extended timeline.
Producing approximately 6 TWh of electricity annually, the Beznau plant meets the energy needs of 1.3 million households of four people, solidifying its role as a key contributor to Switzerland's energy supply.
The Beznau nuclear power plant meets the energy needs of 1.3 million households
Source: World Nuclear News
