Albania is inching closer to
building a nuclear power plant. The government demonstrated its political will
by establishing the National Nuclear Agency in January, responsible for
development of the Albanian Nuclear Energy Programme.
"Producing nuclear energy in
Albania is a real prospect, although we are in the early phase of the
process," says Milo Kuneshka, co-ordinator for the Albanian Nuclear Energy
Programme. "Our first focus is to establish the legal framework, at the
same time working on other plans to expedite the process."
Albania forecasts the use of fourth
generation power reactors, the latest technology to be available by 2020.
Prime Minister Sali Berisha first
mentioned Albania's goal to produce nuclear energy over the winter of 2007,
when the country faced severe electricity shortages. At the time, the foreign
ministry alerted the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) of Albania's
intention to produce nuclear energy.
Since then, the country has
positioned itself as being "open to partnership" with any government
interested in the endeavor. Tirana has made it clear that it does not have the
money to launch the project alone. So far, Italy and Croatia have shown some
interest.
"Albania will welcome all
offers," said Kuneshka, noting that Italy has companies with experience in
the nuclear sector. Albania's neighbour to the west has been banned from
building nuclear plants on its own soil since a 1987 referendum. Croatia is
under a similar prohibition through 2028.
Critics of the Albanian plan
question whether the nation should risk the dangers of nuclear power before
looking for energy from hydro projects, and wind and solar power.
"I have no doubt that nuclear is pure energy and we need energy,
but I am against producing it for its environmental and security reasons,"
said Besmir Geziqi of the Albanian Green Party. "I am sure that the
potential for alternative energy in Albania is enough for the country's needs
and for export."