Survey: Czechs call for energy self-sufficiency, support a mix of nuclear and renewables

Czechs want the country to be energy self-sufficient, with most believing that dependence on energy imports would increase the risk of rising prices and supply instability. They consider a combination of nuclear power and renewable sources to be optimal in the energy mix, while support for generation from coal or gas is weakening. This follows from a survey conducted by Ipsos for energy company ČEZ.

According to the survey, which involved 500 respondents, 93 percent of those surveyed agreed on the need for the country to be self-sufficient in electricity generation. "The demand for energy self-sufficiency has long been very strong in the Czech Republic, across all socio-demographic groups. This view became even stronger after the start of the war in Ukraine and during the subsequent energy crisis," said Michal Straka, an Ipsos consultant specialising in energy research.

According to most people, nuclear power plants play an indispensable role in energy self-sufficiency. More than half of respondents preferred them as the main energy source, according to the survey. Renewable sources were preferred by 36 percent. Most residents consider a combination of the two sources to be optimal. By contrast, gas and coal have the support of only single-digit percentages, according to the survey.

In calling for energy self-sufficiency, Czechs are thus rejecting any potential dependence of the domestic energy sector on electricity imports. According to 65 percent of respondents, this would primarily lead to higher prices, while some people also fear unstable supplies in this context. More than a quarter of those surveyed would view import dependence as a security risk.

The Czech public's attitude towards nuclear energy has long been positive. "Nuclear energy development is currently supported by 77 percent of the adult population, representing an increase compared with previous years. Interest in the subject is also being boosted by media coverage, including in connection with the completion of the Dukovany nuclear power plant and other issues," Straka noted.

According to respondents, the main reasons for supporting nuclear energy are expected economic savings, environmental benefits and strengthening energy self-sufficiency. The main reasons cited by part of the public against nuclear energy development are concerns over safety risks, radioactive waste management, and the high costs of building and operating nuclear power plants.

Along with renewable sources, nuclear energy should become a main source in the domestic energy mix in the future. The state is currently planning to build two new reactors at Dukovany, to be constructed by South Korean company KHNP. The first of the new reactors should be completed in 2036. At current prices, the cost of the currently preferred construction of two reactors is CZK 407 billion. However, the state will also negotiate an option for two additional units at Temelín. In addition to conventional units, modular reactors should also be built in Czechia in the next decade.