Fortum said that the purpose of the Loviisa-3 project is to invest in new, climate-benign power generation. Fortum’s stated long-term target is to be a CO2-free power and heat company.
Development of nuclear power is reported to be an essential part of reaching that goal. In 2007, nuclear power accounted for 48% of Fortum’s power generation, while renewable energy sources accounted for 41%. The power generating company noted that 89% of the power generated by it was CO2-free.
The assessment indicates that the new power plant unit will have a favorable impact on employment in East Uusimaa and South Kymenlaakso and on the economies and commerce of the municipalities.
The assessment examined several alternative intake and discharge locations for the cooling water. The most significant environmental impact identified was the impact of the warm discharge waters on the nearby sea areas. Fortum said that, compared to the current situation, the impact area will be slightly expanded and that the impact on the Gulf of Finland will be insignificant.
