GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy announces SMR technology collaboration in Poland

• 5 years ago (2019-10-22)
• David Flin

Europe 1089 Nuclear 659

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GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GEH) and Synthos have agreed to collaborate on potential deployment applications for GEH’s BWRX-300 small modular reactor in Poland. Synthos, a manufacturer of synthetic rubber and one of the biggest producers of chemical raw materials in Poland, is interested in obtaining electricity from an SMR. In an MOU signed by GEH and Synthos, the companies have agreed to investigate the potential to construct GEH’s BWRX-300 small modular reactor in Poland.

The BWRX-300, a 300MW water-cooled, natural circulation SMR with passive safety systems, uses the design and licensing basis of GEH’s US NRC-certified ESBWR. GEH projects that the BWRX-300 will require up to 60 per cent less capital cost per MW compared to other water-cooled SMR designs or existing large nuclear reactor designs.

John Ball, Executive Vice President of Nuclear Plant Projects for GEH, said: “The BWRX-300 is a breakthrough innovation for the industry where cost has become a significant barrier. Through our design-to-cost approach, we are designing the BWRX-300 to be cost-competitive with gas, renewables, and other forms of power generation.”

Michal Solowow, owner of Synthos, said: “Small modular reactors can play a significant role in addressing Poland’s energy challenges, the modernisation of the nation’s energy sector, and in achieving necessary and responsible deep decarbonisation. Utilising SMRs to generate clean energy will improve our chances to move away from coal and have a positive impact on our industry and nation.”