A joint venture involving Candu Energy has been awarded a contract to construct two new CANDU reactors at the Cernavoda Nuclear Generating Station in Romania. This will be the first construction of CANDU reactors globally since 2007. The reactors, known as Units 3 and 4, will use CANDU technology. They will be situated at the Cernavoda site, which is home to Romania’s sole nuclear power plant. The site currently has two CANDU 6 reactors, Units 1 and 2.“This is a game changing contract for AtkinsRéalis and Romania. As the sole commercial licensee of world-renowned CANDU technology, we are uniquely positioned to contribute to the vast expansion of the world’s clean power,” said Ian L. Edwards, president and CEO, AtkinsRéalis. “CANDU technology is at the forefront of relevant, up to date and differentiated nuclear technologies in the world. We are honoured to help power Romania well into the end of the 21st century with these brand new CANDU reactors. I would like to thank the Government of Canada who helped make this contract possible through export financing support of $3 billion. This also represents our first step in our expansion around the world as we aim to sell many more reactors.”“Canada is proud to stand at the forefront of the global clean energy transition, with CANDU nuclear technology as a pillar of innovation and reliability,” said export minister Mary Ng. “This collaboration in Romania highlights Canada’s leadership in nuclear energy, providing clean, resilient solutions that enhance energy security, reduce emissions, and support economic growth.”Once the two new units are operational, Romania’s clean electricity production will almost double. The Cernavoda plant currently provides approximately 20% of Romania’s power. Each of the existing reactors generates around 720 MW of clean power.Romania aims to achieve energy stability and decarbonisation, which includes phasing out coal-fired power. Since the existing CANDU units began operating in 1996 and 2007, they have prevented the release of over 215 million tons of CO2. Romania also has plans to extend the life of Unit 1.The initial phase of the contract is valued at $224 million. Following the completion of this phase, EnergoNuclear has the option to proceed with the construction of Units 3 and 4, contingent upon the agreement of commercial terms. The Canadian government is supporting this project with export financing of $3 billion.EnergoNuclear is the Romanian entity overseeing the construction, commissioning, and operation of Units 3 and 4. AtkinsRéalis, the owner of CANDU technology, will provide design, engineering, and procurement services. They will also support EnergoNuclear in meeting European Union directives for the project and liaising with Romania’s nuclear power regulator, CNCAN. (ICE TORONTO)

Fonte notizia: https://www.cleantechnology.ca/