Westinghouse Electric and Fortum, a leading Nordic energy company, have entered into an early works agreement (EWA) to explore the potential introduction of an advanced AP1000 reactor in the Nordic region. This collaboration marks a strategic move towards enhancing nuclear capabilities in the area, driven by growing energy demands.
The EWA is a direct result of Fortum’s extensive two-year feasibility study into new nuclear technology options. The agreement will encompass initial project planning, site assessments, and efforts focused 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. Hyundai E&C New Energy Division executive vice president Young Choi expressed enthusiasm, stating, “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, features fully passive safety systems, flexible design elements, and one of the smallest footprints per megawatt-electric (MWe) available today. Globally recognised for its performance, there are currently six operating AP1000 reactors with 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 other European locations, as well as being considered within sites in North America and the UK. Westinghouse Energy Systems senior vice-president Elias Gedeon highlighted the significance of the project, stating, “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.”
This development could shape the future of the nuclear sector by demonstrating the viability of advanced reactor technologies in meeting growing energy demands while ensuring safety and efficiency. The collaboration between Westinghouse, Fortum, and Hyundai E&C sets a precedent for similar projects globally, potentially accelerating the adoption of advanced nuclear technologies.