Swanson School of Engineering

Today, we went to one of CEZ Group’s power plants in Ledvice. There, we were given a behind the scenes tour of the facility, including the turbine housing, water pumps, and control room. We also visited their open-pit coal mines nearby. During the tour, we learned that CEZ currently operates their power plant on coal, and this makes up the biggest portion of their energy production. However, in the coming years this could change as CEZ is aiming to be CO2 neutral by 2052. It was explained that this transfer of heat sources for the power plant would be difficult, but necessary as sustainability becomes increasingly important. Regarding the coal mines, we were shown how once the operations in a certain area are completed, CEZ plants grass and trees in order to bring back nature and thus leave less of an negative impact on the land. Overall, I believe Czechia is doing well in balancing their energy needs with sustainable practices, and will be able to overcome any obstacles that they might face on their journey to becoming CO2 neutral.