Minister of Industry and Trade, Jozef Vlček, is signaling the government's commitment to enhancing the nation's energy infrastructure with a new legislative proposal aimed at reducing dependence on foreign energy sources. The new law seeks to accelerate the construction of combined-cycle gas power plants across the country, with hopes for approval within the first half of the year.

The legislation has garnered broad political support, including from former Industry Minister and Vice-Chairman of the Chamber of Deputies, Karel Havlíček, who has expressed strong backing for the proposal. Havlíček emphasized the importance of increasing domestic energy production to avoid reliance on importing electricity from other countries. His statement reflects a growing concern over energy independence and the stability of the Czech Republic's energy supply amidst global uncertainties.

While the initiative is part of a broader energy strategy focused on renewable energy development, as well as investment in transmission and distribution networks, it has raised concerns about the future of coal-based power. Havlíček cautioned that the closure of coal power plants could have significant repercussions for coal mines and district heating systems, where coal still accounts for about 50% of energy needs. He suggested that some coal plants be maintained through an auction-based system until the new gas infrastructure is fully operational, ensuring a smooth transition and minimizing disruptions to energy supply.

Source: CzechDaily

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