EDF opens the door for more Czech companies to become suppliers for new nuclear projects

EDF held another EDF Supplier Academy in June, aimed at preparing Czech companies to participate in the construction of new nuclear units using EDF technologies, both in Czechia and in other countries. The academy is a comprehensive two-day training course covering an introduction to EPR technology, nuclear safety culture, applicable regulations and standards, technical specifications and quality requirements. The event took place on 6-7 June at EDF Nuclear Czechia's offices at the French Institute in Prague.

The Supplier Academy is one of several initiatives EDF has launched as part of the current tender for the construction of a new unit at the Dukovany nuclear power plant. In building new nuclear reactors, EDF applies a strategy that relies heavily on cooperation with local companies. As a result, most of the value invested in the new units will remain in Czechia. In the construction of two units at the Hinkley Point C plant in south-west England, EDF has so far awarded 64 % of the contract value to British companies.

“Czechia has a legacy of a developed nuclear industry and experience in building nuclear power plants. EDF wants to draw on these exceptional capabilities, revive local industry and strengthen its development. For this to happen, thorough technical preparation is first necessary,” says Roman Zdebor, director of EDF Nuclear Czechia.

EDF plans to integrate Czech companies into its European supply chain not only for the Dukovany 5 project, but also for other new nuclear units in Czechia and Europe. In France, the construction of six new EPR units has been approved, while a further eight are being considered. Amid the current renewed interest in nuclear energy, Poland, Slovenia, Slovakia and the Netherlands are also considering EPR technology.

The Czech and French nuclear industries have traditionally been partners, and several major Czech companies are already involved in the supply chain for EPR reactors, participating in projects in the United Kingdom and Finland.