In a move that positions it at the forefront of nuclear energy advancements, Bulgaria is set to become Europe’s first nation to operate an AP1000 reactor. This announcement was made by Energy Minister Zecho Stankov during a Westinghouse symposium in Sofia.
Key Developments
- Approval for the site and an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) are in place, with efforts now focused on funding and European Commission coordination.
- Minister Stankov recently engaged with U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright to explore investment opportunities in Bulgaria’s Kozloduy nuclear power plant.
- Stankov emphasized the crucial role of local companies in the development of new nuclear blocks, akin to initiatives like the Seventh and Eighth blocks at Kozloduy.
- Multiple memorandums were signed, promising significant involvement of Bulgarian firms in what is anticipated to be a monumental project for this and the next decade.
- New reactor blocks are expected to entice Bulgarian experts with global experience back to the country.
Labor Impact
Stankov underlined that approximately 10,000 jobs will be created at the project’s peak.
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A Groundbreaking Partnership
In November, Kozloduy New Capacities entered into a landmark agreement with U.S. consortium Westinghouse and South Korea’s Hyundai Engineering & Construction to construct the Seventh and Eighth blocks using cutting-edge Generation III+ technology, known for its fully passive safety systems and low carbon footprint per MWe. The first unit is anticipated to commence commercial operation by 2035.
