Bulgaria signs strategically important agreement for new nuclear capacity at Kozloduy NPP
Bulgaria is entering a decisive stage in the implementation of the large-scale project for the construction of Units 7 and 8 of the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant. The signing of the key contract lays the foundations for the overall assessment, design, construction, and commissioning of the future facilities using AP1000 technology, recognized worldwide for its safety, efficiency, and flexibility.
Minister of Energy Zhecho Stankov described the agreement as one of the two most important for the new builds project and a strategic step towards its implementation. "The companies in the consortium have already proven that they work efficiently, on time, and within budget. Their experience and knowledge offer significant potential. In order to build on our national capacity and continue to be a factor in electricity production in Southeast Europe, as well as in the construction of similar new power plants in Europe, the opportunity for our companies to be part of the project is provided," he said. The Minister stressed the importance of joint work and the successful development of small modular reactors in Bulgaria -a new technology in which Bulgarian businesses are showing great interest, and for which the state is creating a framework for future projects to complement Bulgaria's largest one.
Three leading international companies – Laurentis Energy Partners (LEP), BWXT Canada Ltd. (BWXT), and Canadian Nuclear Partners S.A. (CNPSA) – have formed a consortium that will assist Kozloduy NPP – New Builds EAD in exercising investor control and monitoring the processes related to the design, procurement, construction, and commissioning of new nuclear power units at our nuclear power plant site, including initial engineering activities.
A strategic step in the global development of clean nuclear energy – this is how Stephen Lecce, Ontario Minister of Energy and Mines, described the signing of the agreement. "Ontario is solidifying Canada’s global leadership in clean, emissions-free nuclear power and the world is watching. This partnership will see Ontario’s leadership cross the ocean to support Bulgaria’s large-scale nuclear expansion to deliver reliable, affordable power to their country, while protecting our economy", he said.
The agreement ensures that the new capacity will be delivered in accordance with all international and national regulatory standards, within the agreed timeframe and budget. The consortium will support Kozloduy NPP – New Builds as an engineering consultant, including in the initial engineering activities, management of the design, procurement, construction, and commissioning processes.
"This is another key stage in the development of the project for new capacities at the Kozloduy NPP site. We chose the Canadian consortium because of its proven experience and successfully implemented nuclear projects. We expect the contractor to engage at least 30% of Bulgarian specialists and engineers in the activities," said Petyo Ivanov, Executive Director of Kozloduy NPP - New Builds PLC.
Leslie McWilliams, Laurentis President and CEO, and John MacQuarrie, BWXT President of Commercial Operations, highlighted the importance of the companies' substantial experience and expressed confidence that their joint efforts will support Bulgaria on its path to achieving its long-term clean energy goals and strengthening the country's energy security.
During a bilateral meeting, Ministers Stankov and Lecce emphasized the strategic importance of the cooperation between Bulgaria and Canada in a field in which both countries have long-standing experience. They shared the view that the partnership in the construction of the new units of the Kozloduy NPP creates a chain of added value for both the Bulgarian and the Canadian economies.
