Nuclear energy expansion: New SMR projects in Poland and Czech Republic

Significant developments in small modular reactor (SMR) technology are emerging across Europe. In Poland, companies SGE and ZE PAK have signed an agreement to form a joint venture, PAK BWRX, to construct up to six BWRX-300 reactors at the Pątnów site near Konin. This project aims to repurpose a retiring coal plant to provide approximately 1,800 MW of power. Additionally, Polskie Elektrownie Jądrowe (PEJ) has placed orders with Westinghouse for long-lead components for its first large-scale AP1000 nuclear plant in Lubiatowo-Kopalino.

In the Czech Republic, Škoda JS has secured an exclusive contract with Rolls-Royce SMR to supply reactor control systems. The agreement, valued at approximately one billion CZK per project, involves the production of control rod drive mechanisms. The Czech government, through its stake in Rolls-Royce SMR via ČEZ, is actively working to integrate domestic companies into the global supply chain for these reactors. Prototypes for the control systems are expected to be ready for testing around 2028, with mass production planned for Bolevce.