In a groundbreaking move towards bolstering Poland’s clean energy transition and energy security, Westinghouse Electric Company and Bechtel have officially joined forces to design and construct Poland’s inaugural nuclear power plant.
The facility will be situated at the Lubiatowo-Kopalino site in Pomerania, representing a significant leap towards Poland’s sustainable energy goals. This collaboration signals a crucial advancement towards the anticipated commercial operation of Poland’s maiden AP1000® nuclear reactor, slated for 2033.
“The fleet experience we have earned with our advanced, proven AP1000 technology, including a 100 percent complete design and construction lessons-learned, will serve Poland well as it seeks decarbonization and increased energy security,” emphasized David Durham, President for Energy Systems at Westinghouse.
Mark Brzezinski, the U.S. Ambassador to Poland, highlighted the growing American-Polish cooperation in advancing nuclear technologies. He expressed pride in the United States’ role as Poland’s closest partner in their clean energy transition journey.
Dr. Kathryn Huff, Assistant Secretary for Nuclear Energy at the U.S. Department of Energy, voiced confidence in the collaboration, anticipating a positive impact on Poland’s energy landscape. “This is a team with demonstrated ability to deliver on large nuclear energy projects,” Dr. Huff affirmed.
John Howanitz, President of Bechtel’s Nuclear, Security & Environmental global business unit, emphasized the combined expertise and experience that Bechtel and Westinghouse bring to this historic partnership. With over 140 years of combined nuclear power experience, the partnership is set to contribute significantly to Poland’s burgeoning nuclear energy program.
The consortium, in conjunction with Polish utility Polskie Elektrownie Jądrowe, is on track to finalize an engineering services contract next week, marking a critical step in the project’s progression. The Polish government’s selection of the Westinghouse AP1000 reactor technology underscores the dedication to delivering reliable, clean, and safe power to Poland.
The AP1000, known for its fully passive safety systems, modular construction design, and unparalleled efficiency, is making waves on the global stage. Currently operational in the U.S. and breaking records in China, the AP1000 technology is gaining traction in various countries, cementing its status as a transformative force in the realm of nuclear power. Bulgaria’s recent selection of the AP1000 technology for its reactor program further solidifies its position as a technology of choice for many nations.