The Czech Republic submitted its updated National Energy and Climate Plan to the European Commission on January 8, 2025, featuring significant increases in renewable and nuclear energy capacity. The Czech Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Ministry of the Environment worked together to align with EU decarbonisation targets.
Minister of Industry and Trade Lukáš Vlček emphasised that the plan aims to meet these targets cost-effectively while ensuring a secure, affordable energy supply. It projects that the share of renewable energy sources (RES) in electricity generation will rise from 16.5% in 2023 to 28% by 2030 and 46% by 2050. The nuclear share is expected to reach around 44% by 2030 and 68% by 2040 after the completion of new reactors.
The plan does not impose new obligations on private entities and does not direct energy sector development. Natural gas is anticipated as a transitional source but will be phased out in favour of renewable and low-emission gases, including hydrogen.
Minister of Environment Petr Hladik noted that this strategic vision for the Czech energy sector is crucial for long-term planning and investments. It aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030 through increased RES production, energy efficiency, and the complete phase-out of coal by 2033.
Currently, the Czech Republic operates six nuclear reactors, providing about one-third of its electricity. It plans further expansion, including up to four new large power units and 3 GW from small modular reactors.
