Fluor Corporation JV advances Romania’s nuclear ambitions with design contract

Fluor Corporation (NYSE: FLR) and its joint venture partners have taken a significant step in the global clean energy transition by securing a limited notice to proceed (LNTP) for the design of Units 3 and 4 at the Cernavoda Nuclear Power Plant in Romania. EnergoNuclear S.A., a subsidiary of SN Nuclearelectrica S.A., awarded the contract during a ceremony at the COP29 climate change conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, marking a milestone in advancing energy security and sustainability for Eastern Europe.

This project involves a Fluor-led consortium that includes AtkinsRéalis, Sargent & Lundy, and Ansaldo Nucleare. The collaboration underscores the strategic importance of nuclear energy in decarbonising Romania’s power sector while nearly doubling the capacity of the country’s sole nuclear facility.

Romanian Minister of Energy Sebastian Burduja and U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm attended the contract-signing event, reflecting the strong bilateral ties between Romania and the United States. The project is set to redefine the region’s energy landscape by expanding the role of nuclear power.

Romania’s nuclear energy strategy

The Cernavoda Nuclear Power Plant currently meets approximately 20% of Romania’s electricity demand with its two operational units. By adding Units 3 and 4, the facility will nearly double its output, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of the nation’s clean energy portfolio. SN Nuclearelectrica has been instrumental in operating the plant and ensuring it contributes to both energy independence and emission reductions.

Fluor Corporation President of LNG & Power, Pierre Bechelany, emphasised that nuclear energy’s reliability and sustainability make it essential for meeting the growing global demand for clean electricity. He described the project as pivotal not only for Romania but also for Europe’s broader energy transition goals.

Groundwork for final approval

Under the LNTP, the joint venture will undertake comprehensive preparatory work to enable a final investment decision. This includes detailed engineering plans, cost estimates, construction timelines, and preliminary safety assessments. EnergoNuclear holds the authority to advance the project to full construction pending agreement on commercial terms and final approvals.

Candu Energy Inc., an AtkinsRéalis company, plays a critical role in the project as the original equipment manufacturer of CANDU nuclear technology. The Canadian firm will handle design and procurement while ensuring the project adheres to European Union nuclear directives and Romania’s regulatory framework.

Cosmin Ghita, Chief Executive Officer of SN Nuclearelectrica, underscored the project’s significance in maintaining Romania’s energy security. He pointed to the proven track record of CANDU technology, highlighting its role in reducing carbon emissions and ensuring long-term energy resilience.

International cooperation drives success

The collaboration reflects a growing recognition of nuclear power as a key solution for global decarbonisation. Canada’s government has pledged $3 billion in export financing to support the project, a move Canadian officials view as both a commercial and environmental victory.

Ian L. Edwards, President and Chief Executive Officer of AtkinsRéalis, stated that this project marks the first new CANDU reactor build since 2007, representing a turning point in nuclear energy development. He noted that this achievement positions Canada and Romania as leaders in providing clean, scalable power solutions.

Mary Ng, Canada’s Minister of Export, Trade & Economic Development, highlighted the partnership’s broader economic and environmental benefits, including the creation of high-paying jobs and strengthened supply chains.

Global implications of the Cernavoda expansion

As the first CANDU reactors constructed in over 15 years, the Cernavoda Units 3 and 4 project demonstrates the continued relevance of nuclear technology in addressing the world’s energy challenges. By integrating cutting-edge engineering with international collaboration, the initiative sets a new standard for sustainable energy infrastructure.