The Hungarian government has signed an agreement with Framatome, a major player in the nuclear industry, to deepen their cooperation in various areas, including extending the operational life of Hungary’s nuclear power units and exploring the applicability of Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology.
Csaba Lantos, Minister of Energy of Hungary and Bernard Fontana, CEO of the French company Framatome, signed a memorandum of understanding to deepen bilateral cooperation. The focus of the cooperation was primarily education, training, research and development, which is now being expanded to the long-term operation and fuel supply of nuclear power plants. This change justifies the direct involvement of the parent company, which has broader economic, technical and organisational knowledge.
“Hungary assigns a prominent role to climate-friendly, sustainable nuclear energy in the national energy mix. The ongoing preparation for the extension of the operating life of the Paks nuclear blocks and their secure fuel supply demand a comprehensive assessment of international experience and the fullest utilisation of it. Framatome’s globally recognised capabilities can support the Ministry of Energy in a careful exploration of the applicability and advantages of Small Modular Reactor (SMR technology),” said Csaba Lantos.
The Minister of Energy added, “Without nuclear power plants, there is no supply security, external vulnerabilities cannot be reduced, and climate protection commitments cannot be met. Hungary is one of the most dedicated supporters at the EU level of cooperation between member states advocating the use of nuclear energy. In this struggle, our constant ally is France, but Framatome also plays a key role in European efforts for energy sovereignty and competitiveness. By strengthening our partnership, we are entering a new era of continuously expanding and mutually beneficial cooperation.”
“Framatome is deeply committed to supporting Hungary’s nuclear industry and energy policy and this agreement reflects the trust our customers place in our expertise and integrated supply chain,” said Bernard Fontana, CEO of Framatome. “This MoU confirms our commitment to contributing to the diversification and security of fuel supply for the safe and reliable operation of the existing nuclear fleet and preparing for the next generation of nuclear power plants.”
