Work is underway to build new capacities at the Kozloduy NPP. on the project for the 7th and 8th units, as well as on the diversification of nuclear fuel supplies. The refueling of Russian nuclear fuel is an irreversible process.
This was stated by the Minister of Energy Vladimir Malinov, quoted by bTV.
At the International Nuclear Conference in “Golden Sands” the minister was categorical that Bulgaria will not donate the two available reactors from “Belene” of Ukraine, and hard work is being done on a deal that would be beneficial for both parties.
„The deal will be concluded both from the point of view of solidarity with the Ukrainian colleagues, and to the maximum extent in defense of the interests of Bulgaria. Since the price is an important factor, the revenues that we will get from this equipment, according to the decision of the National Assembly, they will be used for the implementation of the new project, units 7 and 8 of the Kozloduy NPP, stated the acting minister Malinov.
„The project to build new nuclear capacities at the site of the Kozloduy NPP, together with the diversification of the fuel, is the most significant for the Bulgarian economy. It will fulfill one of Bulgaria's strategic goals in the context of energy transformation – the transition to low-emission and sustainable energy sources. This is what the Minister of Energy Vladimir Malinov said to the participants of the traditional international conference "Bulgarian Nuclear Energy". national, regional and global energy security“, organized by “Bulatom”, BTA specified.
One of the most important aspects of the socio-economic contribution from the construction of the 7th and 8th units at the Kozloduy NPP is related to the participation of Bulgarian companies in all stages of the project, emphasized Minister Malinov. He emphasized the government's insistence on at least 30-40% participation of Bulgarian companies in the design and construction of the new capacities, which is a key priority in the negotiations.
„The government's work in response to the need to transform the sector is underpinned by the understanding that achieving climate neutrality by 2050 is an achievable task that requires a special focus on low-carbon investment. "Nuclear energy occupies a leading place among them," emphasized Minister Malinov to the forum participants. According to him, the development of nuclear energy in the country in strict compliance with international standards for safety, environmental protection and human health is a key factor for our energy and national security.
A few days ago, during the planned annual repair of the fifth unit of the Kozloduy NPP, it was loaded with an alternative type of nuclear fuel – that of the American Westinghouse. “This is a decisive step in the implementation of the diversification program, which means the right to choose – to be more secure and more independent while achieving better economic conditions", Minister Malinov pointed out. According to him, supply from a reliable source is a leading factor in the safe operation of our nuclear plant.
Minister Malinov emphasized the firm commitment of the government to continue at the necessary pace the development of nuclear power in the future. This process is beyond energy security, it means overall national security of the European electricity market, concluded the energy minister and added that our country will continue to rely on the reliable and safe operation of nuclear power plants, which provide emission-free production at reasonable prices and in full compliance with the challenges related to the European Green Deal.