Polish government adds Development Fund to Orlen‑Synthos SMR venture to resolve ownership dispute

The Polish government is pushing to accelerate the small modular reactor (SMR) programme by introducing the Polish Development Fund (PFR) as a new shareholder in Orlen Synthos Green Energy (OSGE). OSGE, a joint venture between state‑controlled oil firm PKN Orlen and chemical group Synthos, has been stalled by a dispute over the division of investment, licensing, safety and budget responsibilities for the first SMR to be built in Włocławek. Orlen is seeking to increase its stake to around 80 % and wants greater control over technical and financial decisions, while Synthos desires a clear role in the project. By adding PFR, the government hopes to break the impasse, secure financing and demonstrate progress on small nuclear plants before upcoming elections, complementing the larger nuclear project at Choczew.

The move is intended to stabilise the ownership structure, streamline management and hasten construction timelines for the Włocławek reactor, which is expected to supply low‑carbon electricity to Poland’s industry. The government views the involvement of PFR as a way to ensure long‑term funding, reduce the risk of further delays and reinforce the nation’s energy transition strategy.