September 12, 2023 – Framatome announced today the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Energy of Hungary for the development of a strategic relationship in the nuclear field.
This MoU lays the foundation to facilitate the extension of the cooperation between Framatome and Hungary in various domains of interest in nuclear such as education and competencies, R&D, the implementation of new technologies, fuel supply and related nuclear materials, as well as long-term operation.
“Framatome is strongly engaged in supporting Hungary’s nuclear industry and energy policy and this new agreement further bears witness to the trust our customers have placed in our robust and reliable expertise and integrated supply chain over the years,” said Bernard Fontana, CEO of Framatome. “This MOU confirms our commitment to contribute to the diversification and security of fuel supply for the safe and reliable operation of the existing nuclear fleet and for preparing for the next generation of nuclear energy.”
This MoU builds upon the longstanding relationship and cooperation between Hungary and Framatome in nuclear operation and maintenance, as well as services to the Hungarian nuclear power plant. With more than 18,000 employees and over 60 years of expertise, Framatome is present in Hungary through its subsidiary Framatome Kft, which provides direct support to Hungarian customers.
Hungary Energy Minister Csaba Lantos said: “Without nuclear power plants, there is no security of supply, external exposures cannot be reduced, and climate protection commitments cannot be met. At EU level, Hungary is one of the most committed supporters of the cooperation of the Member States promoting the use of nuclear energy. France is our permanent ally in this fight, but Framatome is also a key player in European energy efficiency and competitiveness efforts. By strengthening our partnership, we are opening a new era in an ever-expanding and mutually fruitful cooperation.”
At the initiative and with the cooperation of European VVER licensees, Framatome is looking for a solution to eliminate difficulties in the supply of critical services and to reduce risks and import exposure.
“For several years now, Framatome has been developing an industrial solution to support the short- and mid-term needs of VVER nuclear operators, for both VVER 1000 MW and VVER 440 MW reactors,” highlighted Lionel Gaiffe, senior executive vice president of the Fuel Business Unit at Framatome. “In the short-term, Framatome will provide the proven and incumbent design and in the mid-term, Framatome is the only fuel supplier able to guarantee a sovereign European solution, with a fully-European design, manufacturing and components supply chain, thanks to our longstanding, proven expertise and track records.”
Nineteen VVER reactors are currently in operation in Europe, including four VVER 1,000 MW reactors in the Czech Republic and Bulgaria, and fifteen VVER 440 MW reactors in the Czech Republic, Finland, Hungary and Slovakia.
Bernard Fontana, CEO of Framatome shaking hands with Hungarian Energy Minister Csaba Lantos