Fluor secures pivotal contract for small modular reactor project in Romania

Fluor Corporation (NYSE: FLR) has announced a major development in the global energy sector with the signing of a contract with RoPower Nuclear for Phase 2 front-end engineering and design (FEED) work at its small modular reactor (SMR) facility in Doicesti, Romania. This contract, set to be recognized as a new award in Fluor’s third quarter of 2024, follows the successful completion of Phase 1 FEED work in late 2023. The project aims to deploy NuScale Power’s cutting-edge SMR technology, marking a critical step forward in Romania’s pursuit of carbon-free energy solutions.

Milestone in clean energy initiatives

The signing ceremony for the Phase 2 contract occurred during the Partnership for Transatlantic Energy and Climate Cooperation summit in Bucharest on July 24. This significant event highlighted the international collaboration involved, with attendees including Romanian Minister of Energy Sebastian Burduja and U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm. The presence of high-profile figures underscored the importance of SMR technology in advancing carbon-free power and enhancing energy security. The initiative has garnered robust support from both the Romanian and U.S. governments, reflecting its strategic importance.

Phase 2 work details and technology advancement

Fluor’s Phase 2 FEED work will focus on designing a six-reactor SMR power plant, leveraging NuScale technology to meet European codes and standards. The facility is anticipated to generate up to 462 megawatts of clean, reliable power. This project will be a groundbreaking development, as it will be the first of its kind in Europe upon completion. Fluor’s investment in NuScale Power, which holds the distinction of being the only SMR technology with design approval from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, reinforces the company’s commitment to advancing nuclear power technology.

Expert opinion on the project

Pierre Bechelany, President of Fluor’s LNG & Power business, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s progress, noting, “We are pleased to continue our role in supporting this important project to deploy the next generation of nuclear power to produce clean and reliable baseload electricity for Romania and Europe.” Bechelany’s comments reflect the broader industry view that SMR technology represents a significant leap forward in achieving sustainable energy goals.

The broader impact and future outlook

Fluor’s involvement in this project is expected to significantly contribute to Romania’s clean energy landscape and set a precedent for future nuclear power initiatives in Europe. The development of this SMR facility aligns with global trends towards reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy security, reinforcing Fluor’s position as a leader in the transition to clean energy technologies.