Memorandum of understanding to focus on BWRX-300 technology
Poland-based Synthos Green Energy and Slovenské Elektrárne, Slovakia’s largest electricity producer and nuclear operator, have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore cooperation on the deployment of small modular reactor (SMR) projects using GE Vernova Hitachi’s BWRX-300 technology, the companies said.
The agreement outlines plans to collaborate on investment, licensing, and project development across Slovakia and other Central and Eastern European countries.
The companies said the partnership could include joint ventures, financing structures, and the creation of regional supply chains.
The agreement also identifies opportunities for cooperation in Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and the UK, including potential investments in special purpose vehicles and local partnerships.
In addition, the parties will examine the integration of SMRs with digital infrastructure such as data centres.
The partnership reflects the growing interest in SMRs as a scalable, low-emission energy solution supporting Europe’s decarbonization and energy security goals, the companies said in a joint statement.
Slovenské Elektrárne said the memorandum of understanding is not legally binding, but creates a “solid foundation” for more intensive cooperation and further development of SMR projects, which “can in the future complement the Slovak energy mix.”
According to Branislav Strýček, chief executive of Slovenske Elektrárne, the company sees SMRs as “a promising option for future stable, safe and emission-free electricity production.”
“The partnership with Synthos Green Energy will allow us to analyse the state-of-the-art SMR BWRX-300 technology in detail and to assess its potential for Slovakia,” he said.
The BWRX-300 is a 300-MW water-cooled, natural circulation SMR with passive safety systems. It is based on an existing boiling water reactor design – the ESBWR – that is licensed in the US.
Warsaw-based Synthos is focused on deploying the BWRX-300 in Central and Eastern Europe, while Slovenské Elektrárne brings extensive experience in the construction and operation of nuclear facilities.
