Bulgaria Explores Options for Developing Small Modular Reactors
Bulgaria is currently looking into options for developing small modular reactors to supplement energy capacities and contribute to the flexibility of the energy system. The interim government is already in discussions on the topic with the United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), as stated by the interim Energy Minister Vladimir Malinov. He has met with the US Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm and Assistant Secretary for Energy and International Affairs Andrew Light. The talks took place in the Romanian capital, Bucharest, as part of the ongoing collaboration between the two countries.
The Fifth Ministerial Meeting within the Transatlantic Energy and Climate Cooperation Partnership (P-TECC) in Bulgaria
It is important for us to familiarize ourselves with all potential technologies in this area in order to choose the one that meets our needs. We are discussing cooperation on the topic of small modular reactors with the United States Trade and Development Agency,” added the energy minister.
USTDA is funding several energy projects in our country – a few days ago, they signed a contract with the “Electricity System Operator”.
New Energy Projects in Eastern Europe
The European Commission has approved funding for a pre-feasibility study on the construction of a new energy corridor connecting Eastern and Western Europe. This project aims to increase the cross-border capacity between Bulgaria and its neighboring countries such as Romania, Greece, Turkey, and North Macedonia.
Discussions are also underway for funding the pre-feasibility study of a pilot project for hydrogen production in the “Chiren” gas storage facility. A similar project for small modular reactors is being financed by USTDA in Romania. The agency provided a grant to the Romanian Nuclearelectrica at the beginning of 2021 to conduct studies for this project.
Exploring the Potential for SMR Technology in Romania
Assessing and evaluating several sites in Romania, including places where existing coal-fired power plants could be replaced with SMR plants. The U.S.-based company NuScale Power was selected as the provider of SMR technology in our northern neighbor. USTDA, in collaboration with other American agencies, subsequently commissioned a Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) study to lay out a roadmap for implementing the project. Following his visit to Bulgaria a few days ago, the director of the Agency, Eno T. Ebong, also visited Romania to discuss the SMR topic once again.
Collaboration in Nuclear Energy Sector
Minister Malinov emphasized to his American colleagues that the implementation of joint projects in the field of nuclear energy is crucial for ensuring energy security in the region. He briefed US Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm on the progress made in diversifying the energy sector in Bulgaria. Malinov highlighted the benefits of cooperation between the two countries in the implementation of alternative nuclear fuel produced from…
Westinghouse supplies alternative fuel to Bulgarian nuclear power plant
Westinghouse, the American company, has provided alternative fuel to Block 5 of the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant in Bulgaria. This marks the first time in the 50-year history of the Bulgarian nuclear facility that it is operating with alternative fuel, contributing to the country’s energy security.
The strategic importance of the Vertical Gas Corridor initiative, supported by the United States, was also highlighted. This initiative will ensure access to alternative supplies of liquefied natural gas for the Southeastern Europe region.
Meetings between experts from the United States and Bulgaria within the Managing Committee on Interagency continue as well.
Bulgaria and USA Agreement on Nuclear Power Plant Construction
Bulgaria and the USA have reached an agreement for cooperation on the construction of a new nuclear power plant at the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant site. This project is considered beneficial by both parties. Talks are expected to progress quickly regarding the financing of the new nuclear power plant project by EXIM Bank, as well as the creation of a consortium between the American company Westinghouse and the South Korean Hyundai Engineering and Construction, emphasized Malinov.
Later, Minister Vladimir Malinov also discussed with the Energy Commissioner the potential collaboration on renewable energy sources and ways to enhance energy efficiency in both countries. This partnership aims to strengthen energy security and support sustainable development in the region.
Ensuring the Functioning of the European Single Market
The European Commission and Kadri Simson recently discussed the importance of the European Single Market as a guarantor and essential condition for supply security and price predictability for end consumers.
