NPP "Kozloduy" a new steam generator is needed for unit six due to frequent breakdowns. Our opinion of having a spare would allow us to replace it if necessary. The steam generators are the same in both plants and can be replaced. However, more information is needed from the National Electric Company (NEK), which owns the equipment for the second nuclear plant.
This was stated by the Acting Minister of Energy Vladimir Malinov in the National Assembly.
The hearing was in connection with the negotiations with Ukraine on the sale of equipment from our second nuclear plant to Kiev.
"I am also deeply concerned about this recurring steam generator defect and have become thoroughly familiar with it. An opinion has been requested from the management of the Kozloduy NPP whether the equipment of "Belene" cannot be used. I have received both answers and they are contradictory, which is why I have requested more information. Yesterday I received a reply saying that it will take four to five years to make a new steam generator in the Russian Federation, they do not have confirmation from another manufacturer to make a steam generator. Our opinion about the availability of a spare would allow us to replace it if necessary," said the caretaker minister.
The letter he cites also states that the steam generators are the same in both plants and can be interchanged. However, more information is needed from the National Electric Company (NEK), which owns the equipment for the second nuclear plant.
Meanwhile, negotiations are ongoing with Ukraine for the sale of the same equipment. A general delegation made an on-site inspection. Representatives of NEK and the Ukrainian "Energoatom" participated in it. An offer was sent to Kiev, a response was received, but negotiations are yet to be continued.