And Bulgaria is considering the BWRX-300.

Bulgaria is actively exploring the possibility of introducing Small Modular Reactors as part of its strategic ambition to become a regional energy leader. This development follows a high-level discussion between Bulgarian officials and the GE Vernova company, reports WNN

The Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov and Energy Minister Zhecho Stankov discussed the potential of SMR technology with Roger Martel, the GE Vernova Chief Corporate Officer, in New York. The focus of the discussion was on implementing a new technology that would ensure long-term stability, predictability, availability and low emissions in electricity generation and baseload energy load.

And the Bulgarian government sees potential cooperation with GE Vernova as a key step toward achieving its energy goals. In this sense, Energy Minister Stankov stressed that the partnership would provide access to global experience and technologies that can support Bulgaria in achieving its strategic objectives, which include energy security, decarbonization and economic growth.

Stankov noted that Bulgaria is already among European countries actively investing in modern energy infrastructure and strategic partnerships to ensure a stable and affordable access to energy.

The Prime Minister also highlighted Bulgaria's existing advantages for new nuclear projects, including substantial experience in managing the existing nuclear power plant, experience in operating a regulatory body, as well as a trained workforce and developed educational programs.

This discussion follows a Memorandum of Understanding signed last year with GE Vernova Hitachi Nuclear Energy on the exploration and development of the BWRX-300 small modular reactor project in Bulgaria, whose installation is planned also in Kandi.

Bulgaria currently operates the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant, where two VVER-1000 reactors are currently in operation, which began operation in 1987 and 1991, and together produce approximately one third of the country's electricity. Both reactors have undergone refurbishment and life-extension programs, extending their operational life from 30 to 60 years.

At the beginning of 2024, the United States and Bulgaria signed an intergovernmental agreement on cooperation in the development of Bulgaria's civil nuclear program, which includes plans for new blocks in Kozloduy with Westinghouse design in an effort to reduce dependence on Russian technologies. In this regard, Bulgarian reactors at Kozloduy already use fuel produced in the United States.