Westinghouse Electric Company and Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant (KNPP) have signed a pivotal contract to conduct safety analyses for licensing a new nuclear fuel assembly design compatible with KNPP’s Unit 6. The agreement, signed at Bulgaria’s Ministry of Energy with Minister Vladimir Malinov present, marks a major step toward diversifying nuclear fuel supplies for the plant. This follows the earlier delivery of VVER-1000 fuel assemblies to KNPP Unit 5, a milestone coinciding with KNPP’s 50th anniversary.
Energy Minister Vladimir Malinov highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “This contract represents another key milestone in diversifying Kozloduy’s nuclear fuel supply. Partnering with a global leader like Westinghouse ensures Bulgaria’s energy security and independence.”
Westinghouse, the sole Western supplier for VVER nuclear fuel, offers advanced fuel assemblies designed to enhance supply diversification for VVER reactors. The licensing process for KNPP Unit 6 will include a rigorous Lead Test Assemblies (LTA) Licensing Program, meeting the stringent standards of the Bulgarian Nuclear Regulator.
Patrick Fragman, Westinghouse’s President and CEO, emphasized the company’s commitment, saying, “We are proud to support Bulgaria’s energy independence and fuel diversification. This agreement also aligns with our broader efforts to advance the project for building two Westinghouse AP1000® reactors at the Kozloduy site. We extend our gratitude to Minister Malinov for his steadfast support in achieving this milestone.”
Kozloduy NPP: A Pillar of Bulgaria’s Energy Sector
KNPP remains Bulgaria’s sole nuclear power plant, with Units 5 and 6 providing a combined capacity of 2GW—about one-third of the nation’s electricity. Extensive upgrades have extended the operational lifespan of these units by an additional 30 years, reinforcing their role in the country’s energy infrastructure.
Westinghouse: A Leader in Nuclear Fuel Innovation
Westinghouse’s expertise spans a diverse range of reactor types, including PWR, BWR, AGR, and VVER, offering advanced fuel solutions from facilities in Sweden, the UK, and the U.S. The company’s focus on innovative technologies ensures lower fuel cycle costs, enhanced operational efficiency, and accident-tolerant products for global clients.
Shaping the Future of Nuclear Energy
As a pioneer in carbon-free energy, Westinghouse continues to lead the nuclear industry with cutting-edge technologies. Since introducing the world’s first commercial pressurized water reactor in 1957, its innovations now underpin nearly half of the world’s operating nuclear plants.
This latest collaboration strengthens Bulgaria’s path toward energy security and independence, underscoring the critical role of strategic international partnerships in advancing sustainable energy solutions.
