Turkey Initiates Technical Talks with Canada's Candu Energy for New Nuclear Plants

Turkey Engages Candu Energy for Nuclear Expansion

Turkey has formally agreed to begin technical talks with Candu Energy, a Canadian nuclear technology company, concerning potential cooperation on two planned large-scale nuclear power plants. The announcement was made by Turkish Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar, signaling a significant step in Turkey's ambitious nuclear energy program.

These discussions are part of Turkey's broader strategy to develop its second and third nuclear power facilities, with proposed sites identified in Sinop on the Black Sea coast and the Thrace region in the country's northwest.

Addressing Turkey's Growing Energy Demands

Turkey's engagement with Candu Energy underscores its commitment to bolstering energy security and reducing its substantial reliance on imported fossil fuels. The nation's energy consumption has seen a rapid increase, with electricity demand projected to grow by 55% by 2050. Currently, Turkey imports a significant portion of its energy, making its economy vulnerable to global price fluctuations.

The country aims to achieve a nuclear capacity exceeding 20 gigawatts (GW) by 2050, a target equivalent to four projects the size of the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant. The Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant, Turkey's first, is currently under construction by Russia's Rosatom, with its first unit anticipated to become operational in 2025.

Candu Energy's Heavy-Water Reactor Technology

Candu Energy Inc., a subsidiary of the engineering group AtkinsRealis, specializes in the CANDU (CANada Deuterium Uranium) heavy-water reactor design. This technology is distinguished by several key features:

• It utilizes natural uranium as fuel, eliminating the need for enrichment.
• It employs heavy water (deuterium oxide) as both a moderator and a coolant.
• CANDU reactors are capable of being refueled while operating at full power, a unique advantage over many other reactor types.

Daniela Pizzuto, director of external communications at AtkinsRealis, confirmed the ongoing discussions, stating that Candu Energy Inc. 'appreciates the initial talks with Türkiye's Energy Minister and his team' and is 'eager to deepen our engagement in the near future.'

Broader International Engagement

While engaging with Candu Energy, Turkey is also in discussions with other international partners, including Russia, South Korea, and China, for its planned nuclear projects. This multi-faceted approach reflects Turkey's determination to diversify its nuclear technology suppliers and accelerate the development of its nuclear energy infrastructure. The government intends to formalize its plans for these new nuclear projects within the current year.