Ukraine may become the first country in the world where Westinghouse Electric Company builds its AP300 small modular reactor (SMR). This possibility was revealed by David Durham, President of the Energy Systems division at Westinghouse Electric.
Design Certification by 2027
"We plan to get our design certified by the end of 2027. As for the location of the first AP300, it really depends on the customers. We don't have to build the first unit in the USA; we could build the first unit in Ukraine," Durham stated.
Ongoing Discussions with Multiple Countries
According to Durham, Westinghouse is currently in talks with several potential customers for the AP300 SMR, both in the United States and internationally, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe.
"We assume that countries that are interested in the AP1000 will also be interested in the AP300, given that identical technologies are used," he explained.
Westinghouse's Advantage in Reactor Construction
Durham highlighted Westinghouse's extensive experience in building reactors as a significant advantage over other developers in the SMR market.
"There are many different technologies being developed and promoted by different companies in the field of nuclear energy. However, most of these companies have never built a reactor before," he noted.
Versatile Reactor Sizes for Diverse Applications
He emphasized that the range of reactor sizes offered by Westinghouse provides flexibility for various applications and industries.
- AP1000 Units: Provide up to 1,200 MW of power, suitable for large population centers or industrial hubs.
- AP300 SMRs: Ideal for small communities or large industrial enterprises.
- eVinci Microreactors: 5 MW reactors suitable for remote communities reliant on diesel fuel, remote industrial plants, marine cargo ships, oil and gas sectors, chemical industries, and data centers.
"Large AP1000 units can provide up to 1,200 MW of power. It's a source of high base load around large population centers or large industrial centers. AP300 SMRs are ideal for small communities or large industrial enterprises. In addition, eVinci's 5 MW microreactors are ideal for remote communities that use diesel fuel, or for remote industrial plants, marine cargo ships that burn diesel fuel, oil and gas, chemical industries, data centers," Durham said.
Plans for Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant
Durham also specified that the first nuclear power unit in Ukraine using AP1000 technology is planned to be built at the site of the Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant. The National Nuclear Energy Generating Company Energoatom (NAEK Energoatom) will be responsible for selecting and managing construction companies. Westinghouse's role will involve providing technology, engineering support, and equipment.
Financial Support from Eximbank USA
The Export-Import Bank of the United States (Eximbank USA) will provide support in financing the construction of the unit.
This development marks a significant step in Ukraine's pursuit of advanced nuclear technology and energy independence. By potentially hosting the world's first AP300 SMR, Ukraine positions itself at the forefront of adopting innovative and scalable nuclear solutions.
