Westinghouse and Fortum to Deploy Advanced AP1000 Reactor in Nordics: A Strategic Move for Enhanced Nuclear Capabilities

Westinghouse Electric has entered into an early works agreement (EWA) with Fortum, a leading Nordic energy company, to explore the potential introduction of an advanced AP1000 reactor to meet growing energy demands in the Nordic region. This collaboration signifies a strategic move towards enhancing nuclear capabilities in the region.

The EWA is a direct outcome of Fortum's extensive two-year feasibility study for new nuclear technology options. The agreement will encompass initial project planning, site assessments, and efforts on licensing and permitting processes. These steps are crucial for advancing pre-licensing discussions and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

Hyundai Engineering & Construction (E&C) has been selected as Westinghouse's partner for executing this agreement. Young Choi, executive vice president of Hyundai E&C New Energy Division, stated, "HDEC is deeply honoured that the journey to bring the proven Gen III+ AP1000 reactor to Fortum is taking shape. As a top-tier global EPC company with 55 years of continuous nuclear construction experience working together with Westinghouse, we will build clean energy and sustainable value in Nordics."

The Generation III+ reactor, coupled with grid-scale AP1000 technology by Fortum, has fully passive safety systems, flexible design elements, and one of the smallest footprints per megawatt-electric (MWe) available today. Globally recognized for its performance, there are currently six operating AP1000 reactors that have operational performance and availability records. With 12 more under construction and another six contracted out, it is anticipated that 18 units based on this technology will be functional worldwide by 2030.

The technology has also been chosen for upcoming nuclear projects across Poland, Bulgaria, Ukraine, and European locations, as well as being considered within sites in North America and the UK. Westinghouse Energy Systems senior vice-president Elias Gedeon stated, "With the AP1000 reactor, Fortum is advancing the world's most proven Gen III+ technology that is setting operational and performance records around the globe. Not only will this AP1000 project provide clean, reliable baseload power to the Nordics, but it will also deliver real economic benefits and high-quality jobs for years to come while delivering energy security."

In conclusion, the partnership between Westinghouse Electric and Fortum represents a significant step towards meeting the growing energy demands in the Nordic region through the deployment of advanced AP1000 reactors. This collaboration not only promises to deliver clean and reliable energy but also to create economic benefits and high-quality jobs in the region.