RE: Spanner in all buyout talks19 May 2026 09:22
This is another interesting area, and I think the short point is all eyes must be on the AGM to get some clarity from Keith on how this will all work.
There are a number of separate but related issues that need to be unpicked.
The most discrete issue is the possibility of a buyout. This can happen at any time, pre-permit, post permit (look at Zinnwald for example), and CEZ won't be too bothered about permitting risk for obvious reasons.
The second issue is the limited EIA scoping on hydrology under the ESPOO convention, and we should expect Keith to provide some sort of update there. It's highly likely that this issue was always understood, but could not be confirmed until the Min of Env published the EIA, and sets the clock for a public hearing within the CRMA framework. So the first thing we should expect is an update on those timings.
Overall, this is all very positive for the project because everything is being done correctly.
Where there is a lack of clarity simply relates to timelines for the cross border time frame to ensure that the jointly prepared hydrology work is signed off. I don't think any of us can be entirely certain of final timelines until we are provided with more information at the AGM.
However, this could all be pre-empted by a buyout offer.
Please note - all my own opinion - no crystal ball or inside knowledge. Just a humble opinion.
At this point - I would very much hope for some clear guidance from our Keith and EMH - communication is, as many have noted, not great causing these forums to spend some time trying to connect dots as best we can.