Slovenia’s newly appointed Minister for Infrastructure and Energy, Jernej Vrtovec, presented an energy agenda aimed at expanding the country’s low-carbon energy capacity. The minister said nuclear energy, advanced technologies, and hydropower development are central to national priorities. He also highlighted interest in small modular reactors (SMRs) and the use of artificial intelligence in energy systems.
After taking office, Vrtovec named the proposed second unit of the Krško Nuclear Power Plant as one of the most important strategic projects for the Ministry. The minister pointed to growing attention to SMRs, alongside emerging technologies that could influence how Slovenia’s national energy sector develops. He framed the Krško 2 effort as a key element within broader planning for future capacity.
Krško 2 project preparation and international commitments
According to Vrtovec, the Government is preparing several international agreements and strategic commitments intended to accelerate progress on Krško 2. He said the initiative is now in a sensitive and decisive phase. The minister added that decisions made during the preparation stage could affect construction timelines, financing, and overall implementation.
Vrtovec emphasized that the next steps in the preparation process carry long-term implications for how the project advances. He did not specify which agreements or commitments are being prepared.
Hydropower pipeline on the Middle Sava River and Mokrice
Alongside nuclear development, hydropower expansion is expected to play a major role in Slovenia’s energy strategy. Vrtovec announced plans to accelerate spatial planning procedures and permitting processes for three hydropower projects on the Middle Sava River. He also said preparations for the long-discussed Mokrice hydropower plant are being advanced.
The minister stated that a final decision on Mokrice could be reached in the near future. He did not provide additional details on timing for the Middle Sava River projects beyond accelerating planning and permitting steps.
Electricity system resilience and grid priorities
Vrtovec addressed resilience and stability of Slovenia’s electricity system, expressing confidence it can handle demanding operational conditions. At the same time, he said strengthening security, flexibility, and robustness of the national power grid remains a key priority for the Ministry. He linked these grid priorities to Slovenia’s ongoing energy transition.
The minister indicated that grid resilience work will continue over the coming years as operational requirements evolve.
