Slovakia Approves Multi-Billion Dollar US Nuclear Reactor Deal

Government Greenlights New Reactor

Slovakia's government, led by Prime Minister Robert Fico, has officially approved an agreement with the United States to construct an additional nuclear reactor. The announcement was made by Fico on October 7, 2025, during a speech at an annual nuclear conference held in the Slovak capital, Bratislava.

The new reactor is slated for the existing Jaslovské Bohunice nuclear plant in western Slovakia. It is projected to have an output exceeding 1,000 megawatts (MW), with some plans indicating a capacity of 1,200 MW or 1,250 MW. A key aspect of the deal is that the new facility will be fully owned by the Slovak state.

Project Scope and Estimated Costs

The ambitious project carries an estimated cost of up to 15 billion euros ($17.5 billion). While the exact date for the formal signing of the intergovernmental agreement remains unclear, a construction contract is anticipated by 2027, following feasibility studies. The target operational date for the new unit is set for 2040.

The government's decision to pursue this deal follows a plan approved in 2024 for a 1,200 MW nuclear unit at the Jaslovské Bohunice site. The current Jaslovské Bohunice plant houses two Russia-designed VVER-440 pressurized water reactor units.

Partnership with Westinghouse and Strategic Importance

The agreement is expected to involve the U.S. company Westinghouse Electric Company. Slovakia is reportedly negotiating a direct deal with Westinghouse, bypassing a public tender process. Westinghouse had previously signed agreements in 2023 with the Slovak state-owned nuclear company JAVYS for the potential deployment of its AP1000 reactors and AP300 small modular reactors in the country. The AP1000 reactor is considered a strong candidate for the new unit.

Prime Minister Fico underscored the strategic importance of this investment, stating that the project will be crucial 'not only for Slovakia but also for the entire Central Europe' to maintain competitiveness and meet growing energy demands. He also highlighted Slovakia's commitment to achieving self-sufficiency in electricity production.

Slovakia's Nuclear Energy Landscape

Slovakia is a nation heavily reliant on nuclear energy, with its two existing nuclear plants, Jaslovské Bohunice and Mochovce, generating a significant portion of its electricity. While some reports indicate nuclear power accounts for over 80% of the country's electricity, another source states it was 61% in 2024. This new reactor signifies Slovakia's continued commitment to nuclear power as a cornerstone of its energy security strategy.