Hyundai and Westinghouse to Build Two AP1000 Nuclear Reactors in Bulgaria
Bulgaria has launched a key nuclear energy project aimed at bolstering energy security not only for the country but for the entire Southeast European region. Hyundai Engineering and Construction Co., U.S.-based Westinghouse Electric Co., and Bulgaria’s Kozloduy NPP – New Build have signed an agreement for engineering services to construct two advanced AP1000 reactors at the existing Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant.
New Nuclear Power Plant in Bulgaria by 2035
The first of the new reactors is scheduled to begin commercial operations in 2035, according to Westinghouse. As part of project preparations, the American company had earlier signed agreements with 22 Bulgarian suppliers, highlighting the investment’s broad scope and importance to the local economy. Westinghouse’s scope of work includes detailed site planning for the two AP1000 units in Kozloduy, as well as support for licensing and obtaining necessary permits. Work under the 12-month contract will commence immediately, with subsequent steps following the set schedule.
The contract signing with Hyundai Engineering and Construction follows comprehensive analyses and decisions by Bulgaria’s parliament, which approved the expansion of the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant with two new reactors in December 2022.
Hyundai and Westinghouse Collaboration – Ensuring Timeliness and Quality
Bulgaria’s Ministry of Energy emphasized that partnerships with globally recognized firms like Hyundai and Westinghouse ensure the project will be delivered on time and within budget. The signing ceremony in Sofia was attended by high-ranking Bulgarian and U.S. officials, including Prime Minister Dimitar Glavchev, Energy Minister Vladimir Malinov, and U.S. Ambassador to Bulgaria Kenneth Merten.
Prime Minister Glavchev highlighted Bulgaria’s over 50 years of experience in safely managing nuclear facilities, providing a strong foundation for further development of the country’s nuclear energy sector. Westinghouse Energy Systems President Dan Lipman stated that the two advanced AP1000 units would enhance Bulgaria’s energy security. “This project will provide Bulgaria with clean, safe, and stable energy while creating numerous jobs and delivering economic benefits for years to come, strengthening its energy independence,” he added.
Source: balkangreenenergynews.com