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Urenco signs nuclear fuel agreement to support Bulgaria diversification efforts
20 April 2023
Urenco has signed a new agreement for enrichment services to supply the Kozloduy nuclear power plant in Bulgaria. The long term agreement will see Urenco support the operation of one of two units at Kozloduy nuclear power plant, which is state owned and supports Bulgaria’s objectives to diversify their nuclear fuel supply chain.
Urenco becomes part of a supply chain which includes fuel partners Cameco, Uranium Asset Management (UAM) and Westinghouse.
Kozloduy, based in northern Bulgaria near the river Danube, is currently the only nuclear power plant in the country and generates more than a third of its overall domestic electricity.
The agreement will see Urenco’s enrichment facilities in Europe (the UK, the Netherlands and Germany) receive natural uranium (UF6) from Cameco and supply enriched uranium product (EUP) for fabrication into nuclear fuel rods by Westinghouse.
Urenco’s Chief Executive Officer Boris Schucht, along with representatives from Cameco, UAM and Westinghouse, visited Sofia in late April to mark the new agreement and the first order from Kozloduy.
Boris said, “Urenco is ready to support countries seeking to increase their energy security and independence and I am pleased to welcome Kozloduy as our newest customer.
“We are fully equipped to provide Bulgaria with a reliable nuclear fuel supply – alongside our partner organisations. We are looking forward to a very trustful and long-term partnership.”
British Ambassador to Bulgaria, Dr. Rob Dixon, said:
“Today’s announcement is a crucial step forward in securing Bulgaria’s long term energy security. The invasion of Ukraine and subsequent threat to the supply of energy in Europe makes this more important than ever. I am very proud to have supported Urenco over the years in reaching this deal.”
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About Urenco
Urenco is an international supplier of enrichment services and fuel cycle products with sustainability at the core of its business. Operating in a pivotal area of the nuclear fuel supply chain for 50 years, Urenco facilitates zero carbon electricity generation for consumers around the world.
With its head office near London, UK, Urenco’s global presence ensures diversity and security of supply for customers through enrichment facilities in Germany, the Netherlands, the UK and the USA. Using centrifuge technology designed and developed by Urenco, and through the expertise of our people, the Urenco Group provides safe, cost effective and reliable services; operating within a framework of high environmental, social and governance standards, complementing international safeguards.
Urenco is committed to continued investment in the responsible management of nuclear materials; innovation activities with clear sustainability benefits, such as nuclear medicine, industrial efficiency and research; and nurturing the next generation of scientists and engineers.
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