Slovakia Abandons Russian Nuclear Fuel for Nuclear Power Plants

Slovakia has decided to halt the use of Russian nuclear fuel for its atomic power plants and has replaced it with fuel from the American company Westinghouse, according to reports by Euractiv.

Nuclear power plants in Slovakia contribute to 55% of the country's total electricity generation. Previously, Russian company TVEL, a part of Rosatom, was the sole supplier of nuclear fuel for Slovakia. In March 2022, Slovakia received a shipment of fuel from Russia for its atomic reactors, planned for use until the end of 2023.

However, even then, plans were announced for the exploration of alternative Western suppliers. Currently, the nuclear power plants are fueled by the Swedish division of the American company Westinghouse.

"We are pleased to contribute to fuel diversification in Slovakia and strengthen our long-standing partnership with Slovenské elektrárne. We offer the sole fully Western alternative fuel for this reactor type and remain committed to supporting Slovakia's operational fleet through our Swedish manufacturing base," said Tarik Choho, President of Westinghouse's nuclear fuel division.

Slovenské elektrárne aims to secure at least one additional energy fuel supplier. In May, the electricity producer signed a memorandum of cooperation with the French company Framatome, indicating another potential fuel source for nuclear power plants.

The CEO of Slovenské elektrárne, Branislav Strýček, emphasized: "Finding an alternative nuclear fuel supplier for our atomic power plants is a crucial step in enhancing Slovakia's energy security. The functionality of nuclear power plants is pivotal to our energy system, making source diversification critically important."

Following proper certification, the new fuel will be introduced into operation within the next year, Strýček added.

This agreement aligns with the EU's goal to reduce dependence on Russian energy resources. While most EU sanctions focus on fossil fuels, Slovakia found itself reliant on an aggressor state in the nuclear sector.