2 Jun (NucNet): Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL) has agreed a
memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Ukraine's ministry of fuels and
energy to help the Ukrainian government improve its "energy and
ecological security" through the development of Candu nuclear
technology.
AECL said the MOU, signed on 28 May 2008, serves as a framework for collaboration on the technical and economic feasibility of a Candu nuclear power programme in Ukraine, and for setting out the process for its commercial implementation. A feasibility study to be carried out jointly by AECL and the Ukrainian government will be completed within four months.
Ukraine has shown a strong interest in Candu features related to the use of natural uranium, said AECL. "The Candu design also offers synergies with the existing Ukrainian VVER reactors by offering the potential of burning uranium recovered from VVER spent fuel," a statement said. "This recovered uranium has fissile content similar to natural uranium, which can best be used in a Candu reactor."
Ukraine's interest in Candu technology broadens AECL's discussions in Eastern Europe where Lithuania, Romania and Turkey are also considering the option of Candu nuclear technology development. Romania also has two existing Candu units at the Cernavoda nuclear power plant.
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