Dukovany nuclear power plant. Photo: Getty Images

Delivering reliable, low‑carbon energy at Dukovany nuclear power plant

Supporting Czechia’s transition to secure, clean energy

Czechia is strengthening its energy system to ensure long-term reliability and reduce emissions. Nuclear power plays a central role in this transition - providing stable, dispatchable electricity while enabling wider decarbonization across sectors.

At the Dukovany site, this transition is taking shape through both the continued operation and modernization of existing units and the development of new nuclear capacity. At the same time, new infrastructure is being developed to extend the benefits of nuclear energy beyond electricity - supporting low‑carbon heat supply and regional energy integration.

AFRY contributes to this transformation through a combination of long-standing site experience and ongoing engineering and design work across multiple projects at and around Dukovany - supported by a strong local organization in Czechia.

AFRY’s role at the Dukovany site

AFRY has a long track record at Dukovany, supporting Units 1–4 through modernization, reconstruction, and engineering activities that enable safe and efficient long-term operation.

The team is a well-established engineering partner for nuclear projects in Czechia, working directly with utilities and contractors and maintaining a permanent presence at the Dukovany site

Building on this foundation, AFRY continues to contribute across the wider site, including:

  • Utility and site infrastructure
  • Electrical and I&C modernization
  • HVAC and fire protection systems
  • Supporting facilities and site-specific engineering

Recent and ongoing work includes upgrades to safety systems, electrical infrastructure, and site facilities - supporting the long-term operation and safety of the plant

This experience provides a strong platform for supporting both current operations and future developments at Dukovany.

Project spotlight: CO₂-free heat to Brno

A key part of the energy transition in Czechia is decarbonizing district heating. For the city of Brno, this requires a stable, long-term alternative to fossil-based heat sources.

AFRY supports this shift through the design of a 42 km district heating pipeline connecting Dukovany to Brno. The system will transport CO₂-free heat from the nuclear power plant, replacing natural gas and biomass-based heating with a reliable, low‑carbon solution.

Client value

The pipeline enables:

  • Stable and predictable heat supply independent of fossil fuels
  • Significant emissions reduction in urban heating
  • Improved energy security for one of Czechia’s largest cities
  • Efficient use of nuclear energy beyond electricity generation.

Scope and technical concept

AFRY has been selected by Teplárny Brno, a Czech energy utility, to deliver full engineering and design services for the project, including:

  • Permitting and permitting management
  • Documentation for building permits and contractor tendering
  • Detailed design
  • Site supervision during implementation.

The pipeline is designed as a major regional infrastructure asset, consisting of two parallel hot water pipelines with an outer diameter of 120 cm, ensuring long-term capacity and integration with the wider energy system.

Integrated energy infrastructure for the future

Alongside ongoing operations, the Dukovany site is preparing for new nuclear units -Dukovany 5 and 6 - led by Elektrárna Dukovany II (EDU II) and ČEZ, with Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) as the main contractor.

These new units are a critical part of Czechia’s strategy to ensure long-term energy security, providing reliable, large-scale low‑carbon electricity for decades to come.

Together, the Brno district heating pipeline and the development of Dukovany 5 and 6 contribute to:

  • A more resilient and diversified energy system
  • Reduced dependence on fossil fuels
  • Long-term security of supply
  • Strengthened regional and industrial capabilities

In all, the Dukovany-related projects demonstrate how nuclear energy can support a broader, integrated energy system - combining reliable electricity generation with low‑carbon heat supply and modern infrastructure.

Why AFRY?

AFRY combines deep nuclear expertise with strong capabilities in regional energy infrastructure - helping clients turn complex energy transition projects into practical, deliverable solutions.

For Dukovany and beyond, this means:

  • Proven site experience
    • Decades of involvement at Dukovany Units 1–4 provide valuable knowledge of site conditions, systems, and stakeholders.
  • End-to-end delivery capability
    • From early studies and permitting to detailed design and site supervision, AFRY supports projects across the full lifecycle.
  • Integrated energy perspective
    • Expertise in both nuclear and district energy systems enable solutions that connect electricity generation, heat supply, and infrastructure.
  • Strong local and international collaboration
    • Experience working with utilities, developers, and international partners supports efficient project execution in complex environments.
  • Focus on reliability and long-term value
    • Solutions are designed to deliver stable, low carbon energy systems that meet both today’s demands and future needs.

Want to know more about the Dukovany projects?

József Dénes - SVP & Head of Segment Nuclear, Global Division Energy

József Dénes

SVP & Head of Segment Nuclear, Global Division Energy

Contact Us

Please complete the form and send us your proposal. For career enquiries, please visit our Join us section.
Petr Šlemr  - Director and Head of Nuclear Czech Republic

Petr Šlemr

Director and Head of Nuclear Czech Republic

Contact Us

Please complete the form and send us your proposal. For career enquiries, please visit our Join us section.