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UAE's Enec signs pact with Westinghouse to boost nuclear energy adoption in US
UAE's Enec signs pact with Westinghouse to boost nuclear energy adoption in US

The National

time4 days ago

  • Business
  • The National

UAE's Enec signs pact with Westinghouse to boost nuclear energy adoption in US

The Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (Enec) and Westinghouse Electric Company in the US have signed a preliminary agreement to boost the use of advanced nuclear energy solutions in America. Under the agreement, the companies will explore ways to accelerate the use of the AP1000 nuclear reactor in the US, Enec said in a statement on Friday. They will also work together to build and restart projects in the US, develop commercial and operational deployment models for AP1000 reactors, and fuel supply chains, operations and maintenance services. The agreement, signed in Washington, is aligned with US priorities to quadruple the nation's nuclear power generation by 2050 to meet rising energy demand, including from the expansion of artificial intelligence and the technology sector. 'The world is turning to nuclear energy as a necessity for delivering clean and reliable baseload electricity to meet power demand in parallel with protecting the grid,' said Mohamed Al Hammadi, managing director and chief executive of Enec. 'This marks a significant step in supporting the US's bold ambitions to rapidly expand its nuclear fleet.' Nuclear power is regarded as clean energy because it does not create the same emissions as fossil fuels. The UAE government seeks to hit a 2030 target of generating 30 per cent of its energy from clean sources, including renewable energy and nuclear power. The four units of Enec's flagship Barakah nuclear energy plant are generating 40 terawatt-hours of clean electricity a year for the UAE. The plant generates about 25 per cent of the nation's electricity. Enec, part of Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund ADQ, is now looking beyond the Barakah plant as it seeks to capitalise on its expertise on large-scale plant development, advanced reactors, research and development and clean molecules. As part of its strategy, Enec is pursuing opportunities for investment, collaboration and deployment of nuclear technology internationally to boost energy security and sustainability, the statement said. Watch: Former US energy secretary praises UAE's building of nuclear reactors In May this year, the UAE company teamed up with GE Vernova Hitachi Nuclear Energy to jointly evaluate the deployment of the BWRX-300 small modular reactor (SMR) technology internationally. Enec is a member of the World Association of Nuclear Operators and is aligned on US operating standards and its regulatory environment. 'The US has a bold vision to have 10 large-scale nuclear reactors under construction by 2030,' said Dan Sumner, interim chief executive of Westinghouse. The company provides nuclear and other clean power technologies and services globally. It supplied the world's first commercial pressurised water reactor in 1957.

OPG and OSGE strengthen collaboration on small modular reactors in Poland
OPG and OSGE strengthen collaboration on small modular reactors in Poland

Cision Canada

time21-07-2025

  • Business
  • Cision Canada

OPG and OSGE strengthen collaboration on small modular reactors in Poland

New agreement could pave way for OPG to partner in operating the Polish reactors WARSAW, Poland, July 21, 2025 /CNW/ - Ontario Power Generation (OPG) and Orlen Synthos Green Energy (OSGE) have signed a letter of intent (LOI) that paves the way for the Canadian company to provide pre-deployment, operations, maintenance, and other services to OSGE as Poland deploys small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs). The LOI builds on an earlier agreement announced by the companies in June 2023. Poland plans to build as many as 24 GE Hitachi Vernova Nuclear (GVH) BWRX-300 reactors – the same technology as OPG is building at its Darlington New Nuclear Project (DNNP) site east of Toronto – at six locations across the country. OPG and OSGE signed the LOI today in Warsaw, Poland. This is the first major milestone in the development and operation of BWRX-300 SMRs in Poland. This LOI represents a long-term relationship between Ontario and Poland to deploy SMRs together, which will ultimately benefit the Ontario supply chain and demonstrating the value of being a first mover in SMRs. In addition, OPG could provide pre-operations services including site-specific assessments, project management, licensing strategy, and advisory services as Poland builds out clean energy generation to meet demand and achieve energy independence. Key facts OPG has begun construction on the G7's first commercial grid-scale SMR at its DNNP site. Construction on the first of four planned BWRX-300 reactors will be complete by the end of this decade, with the unit connected to the grid by the end of 2030. Once complete, this SMR will produce enough electricity to power the equivalent of 300,000 homes. OPG and its project partners will complete the three subsequent units in the mid-2030s, pending regulatory and other approvals. Ontario is home to a robust nuclear supply chain. More than eighty Ontario companies have already signed agreements with OPG to deliver the SMR project, establishing themselves as leaders in the growing domestic and global markets for new nuclear technologies. In 2022, Synthos Green Energy and ORLEN established the joint venture OSGE to deploy a fleet of BWRX-300 SMRs in Poland. This agreement further cements a well-established relationship between OPG and OSGE. In addition to the Letters of Intent, in 2024, OPG subsidiary Laurentis Energy Partners signed a $40 million contract with the Polish company to complete a Preliminary Safety Analysis Report (PSAR) on SMRs. Orlen Synthos Green Energy and OPG are also part of a technical collaboration group – also including GE Vernova Hitachi and the Tennessee Valley Authority – which has invested in the development of the BWRX-300 standard design and detailed design for key components, including reactor pressure vessel and internals. Quotes "With many decades safely operating nuclear power generation, and our leadership on SMRs, jurisdictions are looking to OPG and Ontario as they advance new nuclear power, as a solution for their energy security needs," said Nicolle Butcher, OPG President and CEO. "We are honoured by the potential opportunity to help Poland build a nuclear fleet, while also growing our domestic nuclear supply chains and economies." "Benefiting from Canadians' expertise allows us to feel confident in building the first SMR reactor in Poland," said Rafał Kasprów, OSGE CEO. "We recognize OPG's experience in the nuclear industry as well as its determination and advancement in deploying the first BWRX-300. Today, we are embarking on new opportunities to bring clean, stable energy for our citizens and Polish industry." About OPG As Ontario's largest and one of North America's most diverse electricity generators, OPG invests in local economies and employs thousands of people across Ontario. OPG and its family of companies are advancing the development of new low-carbon technologies, refurbishment projects and electrification initiatives to power the growing demands of a clean economy. Learn more about how the company is delivering these initiatives while prioritizing people, partnerships and strong communities at

Ontario to build world's first SMR service centre as Ford government pushes massive nuclear expansion
Ontario to build world's first SMR service centre as Ford government pushes massive nuclear expansion

Hamilton Spectator

time24-06-2025

  • Business
  • Hamilton Spectator

Ontario to build world's first SMR service centre as Ford government pushes massive nuclear expansion

Ontario is building the world's first small modular reactor (SMR) engineering and service centre as the Ford government pushes a massive nuclear power expansion. Backed by a $70-million investment from GE Vernova Hitachi, the centre will support Ontario's $20-billion SMR megaproject at the Darlington nuclear site. Provincial Energy Minister Stephen Lecce said the new centre proves that Ontario is 'leading the world' in nuclear innovation. 'Nuclear attracts investment, it creates jobs, and it is the constant energy source we need,' Lecce said at the press conference in Toronto. 'By locking in this investment from GE Vernova, we are reinforcing our plan to make Ontario a clean energy superpower where our workers build with Canadian materials, operate with Canadian expertise and export the clean technology the world needs.' Lecce said the new 50,000-square-foot facility, located near the new Darlington SMR project , will serve as a global hub for maintaining and supporting BWRX-300 SMRs . It will train up to 2,000 nuclear professionals each year and create 300 jobs. Currently, around 80,000 people work in Ontario's nuclear industry. The project is the first major private investment in Ontario's nuclear expansion since the Ford government released its long-term 'Energy for Generations' plan, which emphasizes attracting private capital to help fund its costly new nuclear projects. Released last week, the plan projects a major shift toward nuclear power to meet rising electricity demand — while also showing increased reliance on fossil fuels over the next decade, with emissions expected to rise before declining after 2030. More than 50 per cent of Ontario's electricity comes from nuclear power. Under the new plan, that share is projected to exceed 70 per cent by 2050, as electricity demand is expected to rise by 75 per cent. The government says nuclear expansion is key to meeting that demand and estimates it will need up to 17,800 MW of new nuclear capacity, equivalent to building five new Darlington stations. Nuclear projects are complex and costly, and the province says it plans to explore new ownership models and equity partnerships to attract private capital and help finance the expansion. At the press conference, GE Vernova Canada President Heather Chalmers said the new SMR centre is an important step for Ontario's nuclear sector and the future of small modular reactors in Canada. 'This Ontario-based hub will provide the province with continued access to the best and brightest talent and innovation in the nuclear energy industry while complementing global efforts for deploying the BWRX-300.' Chalmers said the centre will also include advanced tools, such as a virtual reality simulator for refueling and maintenance training, along with inspection technology and support systems specifically designed for BWRX-300 reactors. She said the centre will support Ontario's SMR project at Darlington and help connect the province's expertise to international markets, and it's expected to add around $128 million to the province's economy each year. 'Today's announcement is not just about a new facility — it's about building the infrastructure, capabilities, and workforce needed to support the future of SMRs in Canada and around the world.' Energy experts and environmental advocates have long criticized the Ford government's heavy investment in nuclear power, saying it ignores Ontario's strong potential for cheaper, faster renewable options like wind and solar. They warn the nuclear-heavy approach could raise costs, hurt affordability, and increase Ontario's dependence on foreign energy supplies. The government, however, argues that nuclear power is more cost-effective and land-efficient than renewables. In today's statement , the government says Ontario would need to build up to 8,900 megawatts of wind and solar, paired with battery storage, to replace the output of four SMRs — an alternative it claims would carry major risks, including large land requirements and the need for significant transmission infrastructure. But recent studies challenge nuclear's economic case. The Ontario Clean Air Alliance estimates electricity from new nuclear facilities could cost up to 3.6 times more than onshore wind and three times more than solar. Another report suggests Ontario could save up to $19 billion annually by switching to wind, solar and storage, instead of pursuing the proposed Wesleyville mega-nuclear project near Port Hope. Growing skepticism over the cost of small modular reactors echoes global concerns. In the US, two reactors in South Carolina were scrapped after $12.5 billion (CAD) was spent, leading to Westinghouse Nuclear's bankruptcy . Georgia's Vogtle plant was completed at $48 billion , more than twice its original estimate, making it one of the most expensive infrastructure projects in US history. In the UK and Europe, new nuclear projects are also facing delays, cost overruns and cancellations. The government has not provided a timeline for the construction of the new SMR service facility. Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .

Trump nuclear power orders could open small reactors in the U.S. by 2030, GE Vernova CEO says
Trump nuclear power orders could open small reactors in the U.S. by 2030, GE Vernova CEO says

CNBC

time28-05-2025

  • Business
  • CNBC

Trump nuclear power orders could open small reactors in the U.S. by 2030, GE Vernova CEO says

President Donald Trump's executive orders on nuclear power could lead to the deployment of small modular reactors in the U.S. by late 2030, GE Vernova CEO Scott Strazik said Wednesday. Trump on Friday ordered the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to decide on applications to construct and operate new nuclear plants within 18 months. The order also calls for the NRC to "adopt shorter deadlines tailored to particular reactor types." The nuclear industry has long complained that the NRC's approval process takes too long. Trump's order could result in approvals to start building small modular reactors in the U.S. by 2027, Strazik told the research firm Bernstein in an interview. This would create a "credible shot" of adding these reactors to the U.S. nuclear fleet in late 2030 or 2031, the CEO said. Small modular reactors (SMRs) are plant designs that many in the industry view as the future of nuclear power. SMR developers including GE Vernova believe the reactors will one day lower the cost of building nuclear plants and speed up construction because they are smaller and assembled onsite with prefabricated parts. Large nuclear plants such as Plant Vogtle in Georgia have been plagued with multi-billion dollar cost overruns and lengthy construction delays. "It's just the beginning of what could very much become a very meaningful part of our business in the 2030s. We're very encouraged by this," Strazik said of Trump's executive order. GE Vernova received approval earlier this month to deploy its BWRX-300 reactor in Ontario, Canada. It will be the first SMR deployed in the West, according to the company. The Tennessee Valley Authority filed an application with the NRC earlier this month to build a GE Vernova reactor at Oak Ridge, Tenn. "We expect more customers to put in applications to construct new SMRs with our technology before the year is over," Strazik said. Customer interest in GE Vernova's SMR is "very high," with users increasingly willing to pay a premium for nuclear because it doesn't emit carbon dioxide, the CEO said. GE Vernova's core business is manufacturing and servicing natural gas-powered turbines, which is seeing high demand as electricity consumption grows in the U.S. The company's stock has soared nearly 48% this year.

AtkinsRéalis signs new execution contract for Darlington Small Modular Reactor Project Français
AtkinsRéalis signs new execution contract for Darlington Small Modular Reactor Project Français

Cision Canada

time28-05-2025

  • Business
  • Cision Canada

AtkinsRéalis signs new execution contract for Darlington Small Modular Reactor Project Français

MONTREAL, May 28, 2025 /CNW/ - Candu Energy Inc., an AtkinsRéalis company [AtkinsRéalis Group Inc.] (TSX: ATRL), has been awarded a $450 million execution contract by Ontario Power Generation (OPG), for the first of four planned small modular reactor (SMR) units at the Darlington New Nuclear Project. The 300-megawatt BWRX-300 small modular reactor being delivered for OPG in Durham Region, east of Toronto, will supply enough power for 300,000 homes. 1 AtkinsRéalis is providing OPG with expertise for the engineering of the SMR. This includes project management, licensing, engineering, design, procurement, construction support and commissioning, as well as digital delivery capabilities in both the nuclear island and balance of plant scopes for the project. "As a world-class engineering services and nuclear organization, we are advocates for the role of SMRs in the energy mix to create stable, affordable, and reliable power grids," said Ian L. Edwards, President and Chief Executive Officer, AtkinsRéalis. "Our involvement in the G7's first grid-scale SMR and Canada's first nuclear new build in roughly 30 years reaffirms our leading position in the global nuclear energy market, for both large and small reactor technologies. Our trusted relationship with OPG supporting hydropower assets and refurbishing CANDU reactors at Darlington and Pickering will support this project's successful completion by 2030." AtkinsRéalis has been the architect-engineer on the Darlington New Nuclear Project alliance team since 2023. The Company is working alongside GE Vernova Hitachi Nuclear Energy and Aecon Kiewit Nuclear Partners. The site preparation work undertaken under an earlier validation phase contract has been completed on time and on budget. The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission has issued a license to construct the SMR, and the Ontario government has also given its final approval for construction of the first of four planned units at the site. "AtkinsRéalis is a long-time trusted partner to OPG, including on the on-time, on budget Darlington Refurbishment Project," said Nicolle Butcher, OPG President and CEO. "We will draw on our shared experience for similar success as we build the first small modular reactor in the G7 at the Darlington New Nuclear Project site." "Ontario's power demand is expected to surge by 75% by 2050 2 and we'll need all sources of cleaner power to meet the need, including large and small nuclear reactor technology," said Joe St. Julian, President, Nuclear, AtkinsRéalis. "Together with our alliance partners, we will ensure Canada continues to lead the G7 in advancing the use of SMR technology, as AtkinsRéalis also continues to support international SMR projects in the UK, US, and Poland." About AtkinsRéalis Created by the integration of long-standing organizations dating back to 1911, AtkinsRéalis is a world-class engineering services and nuclear company dedicated to engineering a better future for our planet and its people. We create sustainable solutions that connect people, data and technology to transform the world's infrastructure and energy systems. We deploy global capabilities locally to our clients and deliver unique end-to-end services across the whole life cycle of an asset including consulting, advisory & environmental services, intelligent networks & cybersecurity, design & engineering, procurement, project & construction management, operations & maintenance, decommissioning and capital. The breadth and depth of our capabilities are delivered to clients in strategic sectors such as Engineering Services, Nuclear and Capital. News and information are available at or follow us LinkedIn. About AtkinsRéalis' Nuclear Sector AtkinsRéalis has over 70 years of global nuclear expertise, delivering nuclear technology products and full-service solutions to nuclear utilities around the world. AtkinsRéalis is the steward of CANDU® nuclear technology, operating on four continents, and provides advisory and engineering services to other nuclear developers. With an innovative technology portfolio, including access to over 500 patented solutions, AtkinsRéalis solves technically complex challenges across the whole nuclear lifecycle from design and new build through asset management and from life extension and late life management through decommissioning and waste management. AtkinsRéalis operates and manages government nuclear research sites, transforming ageing infrastructure and safely managing legacy nuclear waste. AtkinsRéalis' CANDU technology also allows for the co-production of medical radioisotopes for cancer detection and treatment. The company also supports cancer treatment through its partnership with TerraPower to extract isotopes from legacy nuclear material. Learn more on our Nuclear market page. Forward-Looking Statements References in this press release to the "Company", "AtkinsRéalis", "we", us" and "our" mean, as the context may require, AtkinsRéalis Group Inc. or all or some of its subsidiaries or joint arrangements or associates. Statements made in this press release that describe the Company's expectations or strategies constitute "forward-looking statements", which can be identified by the use of the conditional or forward-looking terminology such as "estimates", "expects", "forecasts", "intends", "may", "objective", "plans", "projects", "should", "will", "likely", or other variations thereon. Forward-looking statements also include any other statements that do not refer to historical facts. The Company cautions that, by their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, and that its actual actions or results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are presented for the purpose of assisting investors and others in understanding certain key elements of the Company's current objectives, strategic priorities, expectations and plans, and in obtaining a better understanding of the Company's business and anticipated operating environment. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Forward-looking statements made in this press release are based on a number of assumptions believed by the Company to be reasonable as at the date hereof. The assumptions are set out throughout the Company's 2024 annual management disclosure & analysis ("2024 MD&A") (particularly in the sections entitled "Critical Accounting Judgments and Key Sources of Estimation Uncertainty" and "How We Analyze and Report our Results") filed with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada, available on SEDAR+ at and on the Company's website at under the "Investors" section. If these assumptions are inaccurate, the Company's actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. In addition, important risk factors could cause the Company's assumptions and estimates to be inaccurate and actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by these forward-looking statements. Those risks are identified in the 2024 MD&A (particularly in the section entitled "Risk and Uncertainties"), as may be updated from time to time in the Company's interim quarterly MD&A, are not exhaustive. The forward-looking statements herein reflect the Company's expectations as at the date of this press release and are subject to change after this date. The Company does not undertake to update publicly or to revise any such forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable legislation or regulation. The forward-looking information and statements contained herein are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

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