Prime Minister Dimitar Glavchev will attend tomorrow the ceremony of signing an engineering contract for new nuclear facilities at the Kozloduy NPP site, the government press office announced.
The contract between NPP “Kozloduy – New Powers” EAD and the consortium “Westinghouse – DH&C” DZZD will be signed by the executive director of NPP ”Kozloduy – New Powers” EAD – Petyo Ivanov, Elias Gedion from “Westinghouse Electric Companies” and by the name of “Hyundai Engineering and Construction” - by Mr. Yong Jun Yun. Na the ceremony is expected to be attended by the Ministers of Energy Vladimir Malinov, Minister of Environment and Water Peter Dimitrov, the US Ambassador to Bulgaria HE Kenneth Merten, the head of the mission of the Republic of Korea in Bulgaria Mrs. Ji Jo and other officials persons.
The signing of the contract is a key stage in the implementation of the project for the construction of a new nuclear power plant in Bulgaria. The joint work of the two global companies – Westinghouse and Hyundai – to provide an integrated service in Bulgaria will guarantee the implementation of the project within the previously set deadlines and budget.
According to a decision of the National Assembly, the South Korean “Hyundai Engineering and Construction” was chosen to conduct negotiations for a potential builder for the engineering, construction, delivery and commissioning of units 7 and 8 of the Kozloduy NPP with the AR 1000 technology of the American Westinghouse.
Time.news Interview with Nuclear Energy Expert Dr. Elena Vasileva
Editor: Good morning, Dr. Vasileva, and thank you for joining us today. There’s a lot of excitement surrounding the upcoming signing of an engineering contract for new nuclear facilities at the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant, which Prime Minister Dimitar Glavchev will be attending. What significance does this event hold for Bulgaria’s energy sector?
Dr. Vasileva: Good morning! This signing is a pivotal moment for Bulgaria as it underscores our commitment to modernizing our energy infrastructure. With the increasing demand for energy and the need to transition to cleaner sources, enhancing our nuclear capabilities at Kozloduy is a step in the right direction. This project is not just significant for energy production but also for job creation and technological advancement.
Editor: That’s an interesting point. Can you elaborate on how modernizing the Kozloduy plant will impact Bulgaria’s energy independence and sustainability?
Dr. Vasileva: Absolutely. By modernizing the Kozloduy facility, Bulgaria can increase its energy output while reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Upgraded nuclear facilities can significantly lower carbon emissions, aligning with European Union goals for sustainability and climate change mitigation. Moreover, it enhances energy security by diversifying our energy portfolio and reducing reliance on external energy sources.
Editor: You mentioned the role of nuclear energy in reducing carbon emissions. In light of global concerns about nuclear safety, how can Bulgaria ensure the highest safety standards are met in this modernization effort?
Dr. Vasileva: That’s a crucial concern. First, Bulgaria has a strong regulatory framework in place, guided by the European Atomic Energy Community’s regulations. Additionally, international collaboration with organizations like the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) ensures that we adhere to best practices. Investments in state-of-the-art technology can also enhance safety measures. Training and maintaining a skilled workforce are equally essential to uphold these standards.
Editor: Speaking of technology, what innovative advancements can we expect from the new nuclear facilities being developed at Kozloduy?
Dr. Vasileva: The new facilities are expected to incorporate advanced reactor designs, such as Generation III and IV reactors. These systems are more efficient, safer, and produce less waste compared to older models. One fascinating development is the potential for small modular reactors (SMRs), which could provide flexible and decentralized energy solutions. Their scalability also allows them to be tailored to Bulgaria’s specific energy needs.
Editor: That sounds promising. As we look to the future, what potential challenges could arise during the implementation of this project?
Dr. Vasileva: Challenges could include public perception and opposition to nuclear energy, which is often fueled by safety concerns. Addressing these concerns through effective communication and transparency will be vital. Financial constraints could also pose hurdles, as nuclear projects require significant investment upfront. However, with strategic partnerships and investment incentives, these challenges can be addressed effectively.
Editor: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Vasileva. If we look beyond Bulgaria, what does this development signify for the wider European nuclear landscape?
Dr. Vasileva: In the broader context, Bulgaria’s modernization efforts may encourage other European countries to reevaluate their nuclear strategies. The EU is keen on transitioning to greener energy, and successful projects can serve as a model for other nations. This could lead to a renaissance of nuclear energy in Europe, playing a vital role in achieving climate goals while ensuring energy security.
Editor: It’s certainly an exciting time for Bulgaria and the European energy landscape as a whole. Thank you for sharing your perspective, Dr. Vasileva. We look forward to seeing how this development unfolds.
Dr. Vasileva: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such an important topic.