Czech Republic advances Dukovany nuclear expansion plan

Amid the hum of drills at Dukovany, the Czech Republic is pressing ahead with a $19 billion nuclear expansion, selecting South Korea’s KHNP over France’s EDF to build two reactors of over 1,000 megawatts each, part of a bid to at least double nuclear output. Geological surveys reach 140 meters as officials say the project will help replace coal and meet rising power demand. The state will take an 80% stake, back loans and guarantee revenue for 40 years. Critics cite cost and waste, while Austria’s dispute over Temelín underscores sensitivities. CEZ has fuel deals; KHNP’s includes 10 years.