The agreement is intended to introduce Japanese nuclear expertise into Poland to support the development of its nuclear infrastructure.
“This memorandum aims to bring Japanese nuclear businesses to Poland, aiding in building nuclear capabilities,” Czarnecka said. However, Ministry spokesperson Tomasz Głogowski clarified on Wednesday that the agreement does not include commitments for constructing a second nuclear power plant, countering some media reports.
Głogowski outlined that the memorandum will focus on collaboration at the industrial level, including technology exchange, information sharing, workshops, and public outreach on nuclear safety. “This cooperation will enhance nuclear skills and competencies, which are essential for realizing Poland’s Nuclear Energy Program,” he added.
The current version of Poland’s Nuclear Energy Program (PPEJ), established in 2020, plans for the construction of two nuclear plants with a combined capacity of 6-9 GW. The state-owned Polskie Elektrownie Jądrowe is set to lead as investor and operator.
The first plant, slated for the Lubiatowo-Kopalino site in the country’s northern Pomerania region, will be developed with the American nuclear energy consortium Westinghouse-Bechtel. The Polish Climate Ministry is expected to update the PPEJ this year, potentially adding plans for small modular reactors (SMRs).
According to the government’s recent statements, groundwork on Poland’s first nuclear reactor is scheduled to begin in 2028, with the construction expected to be completed within seven years from that date.
(jh)
Source: PAP