Geotechnical opportunities for the construction of alternative energy production plants in the Baltic states

Abstract The energy sector is the most influential industry for the successful functioning of the states’ economy and general daily life maintenance. One of the future targets of the Baltic states is reaching the continental European energy network integrity and securing it. Furthermore, regional independence of the energy networks apart from eastern neighboring countries is of the most significant importance as the existing electricity grid is still synchronized with the supply systems of Russia and Belarus. During a tense geopolitical situation, it is crucial to search for alternative energy production options in terms of environmentally friendly and sustainable energy sources and economically viable alternatives. The Baltic states already have hydropower capacity, and Latvia is a leading country in this regard. Also, the energy production sector based on wind power use is developing significantly, and in this niche, the dominant one is Lithuania. Another alternative mentioned at the interstate level is the construction opportunity of a small modular reactor for nuclear fission, where Estonia has taken the first assessment step. In any case, but most significantly for the latter option, the regional geological and environmental situation determines where such strategic energy objects can be safely situated. The dynamic progression of climate change in boreal regions, including the Baltic states, may endanger the structural integrity of energy production infrastructure objects; therefore, geotechnical investigation serves as a key stage in the objects’ construction planning.