The European Commission (EC) has granted approval today for the revised Czech National Recovery Plan, a move that will provide an additional €2.2 billion (approximately CZK 53.6 billion) to support clean energy initiatives and industrial transformation. EC President Ursula von der Leyen announced this development during her visit to Prague following a meeting with Prime Minister Petr Fiala of the ODS party. According to the EC’s statement, the total volume of the National Recovery Plan has now reached €9.2 billion (approximately 224.2 billion crowns).
Von der Leyen elaborated on the plan, highlighting that it allocates 736 million euros (17.8 billion crowns) for investments in grid infrastructure, renewable energy sources, and environmentally friendly transportation. Additionally, the plan aims to enhance the Czech Republic’s capabilities necessary for the green transformation of its industrial sector.
The EC noted that the Czech Republic has introduced new investment initiatives within the recovery plan, including the construction of affordable housing and the modernization of its electricity distribution systems through digitization. The country has also expanded its efforts to bolster cybersecurity within public administration. Furthermore, a new section has been incorporated into the plan to access REPowerEU funding, which entails 15 reforms and nine investments designed to reduce dependence on Russian fossil fuels.
Prime Minister Fiala revealed that during his meeting with President von der Leyen, they discussed the TAL pipeline project, which connects the Czech Republic with Italian ports and could decrease reliance on Russian oil. Fiala emphasized that state investments in this project are subject to approval by the Commission through the notification process.
The Czech Republic is also awaiting notification for the proposed expansion of the Dukovany nuclear power plant. Fiala expressed optimism regarding the likelihood of receiving this notification. He underscored the importance of nuclear energy in the Czech Republic, as it plays a fundamental role in decarbonizing the country’s energy sector. Fiala highlighted the nation’s strong expertise in nuclear energy, spanning both educational institutions and research and development.
President von der Leyen emphasized that the choice of energy sources remains the prerogative of individual EU member states. She assured that the Commission acknowledges the significance of nuclear energy for the Czech Republic and is open to considering state aid programs in this sector as needed.
Source: ceskenoviny.cz
