Connection

popular articles

Rays Green Energy invests €158 million in a solar giga factory in India
Germany modernizes its wind farms with tripled capacity
Technique Solaire expands in Europe with new solar projects
DRC dam: Fortescue for the Grand Inga Project
ADNOC Gas Cancels Das Island Expansion Project

First fuel for new Kursk nuclear power plant launched

The first delivery of nuclear fuel for the Kursk II power plant marks a key milestone in Russia's energy development.
Combustible nucléaire Koursk II

Please share:

The Kursk II nuclear power plant, located 60 kilometers from the Ukrainian border, is preparing to load its first fuel assemblies into unit 1. Equipped with two VVER-TOI reactors, this plant represents the latest innovation in light water reactor design in Russia.

Project background and progress

Since the start of construction in 2018, the Kursk II power plant has achieved several important milestones, including the installation of the polar crane in October 2021 and the reactor in June 2022. The completion of the outer dome in August 2023 also marked a significant step forward. The VVER-TOI reactors, each with a capacity of 3,300 MWt, are designed to generate 1,300 MWe gross. This advanced technology incorporates improved pressure vessels and enhanced thermal reliability, aimed at improving the plant’s technical and economic performance.

Executive comments and next steps

Alexander Uvakin, Director of the Kursk power plant, declared that the delivery of nuclear fuel proves the advanced state of construction of the first reactor. The next cold and hot tests should precede the reactor’s physical start-up phase. TVS VVER-TOI nuclear fuel is based on the VVER-1000 and VVER-1200 reactors. The new fuel enables increased fuel loading, higher thermal reliability and more effective core control.

Energy Transition and Future Prospects

The gradual closure of all four units of the existing Kursk nuclear power plant by 2031 is part of Russia’s energy modernization plan. The first unit was shut down in December 2021 after 45 years of operation. The remaining units will follow, marking the transition to more modern, efficient facilities. The Kursk II plant is part of this dynamic, replacing the old RBMK-1000 reactors with VVER-TOI units. This evolution is essential to meet growing safety andenergy efficiency requirements. The integration of new technologies and the efficient management of the 18-month fuel cycle position Kursk II as a model of performance in the nuclear sector.
The delivery of the first nuclear fuel to the Kursk II power plant represents a crucial milestone in the completion of this ambitious project. With significant improvements in technology and energy management, this plant promises to play a central role in Russia’s energy future.

Register free of charge for uninterrupted access.

Publicite

Latest news

Air Liquide records a net profit of €3.31 billion in 2024 #
EDF signs preliminary agreements to supply 12 TWh of annual electricity to heavy industries
CNOOC Limited launches Phase II of Luda 5-2 North oil project
EDF’s EPR2 reactor cost estimate delayed by several months
Imerys aims for green light on lithium pilot plant before summer

Recently published in

EDF’s EPR2 reactor cost estimate delayed by several months

The full assessment of costs and timeline for the construction of six EPR2 reactors by EDF has been delayed by several months, according to a source close to the electricity provider.
European Partnerships: Hexana, Tractebel, Blykalla, and Newcleo Accelerate Next-Generation Nuclear Reactor Development
Hexana and Tractebel form a strategic alliance to support the development of a sodium-cooled fast neutron reactor. Meanwhile, Blykalla and Newcleo collaborate on material research for lead-cooled reactors.
en_1140290955540-13
European Partnerships: Hexana, Tractebel, Blykalla, and Newcleo Accelerate Next-Generation Nuclear Reactor Development
Hexana and Tractebel form a strategic alliance to support the development of a sodium-cooled fast neutron reactor. Meanwhile, Blykalla and Newcleo collaborate on material research for lead-cooled reactors.
en_1140290955540-13
Orano envisages a long and uncertain restart for its uranium mine in Niger
The Orano group faces a difficult restart of its mining operations in Niger after losing control of its subsidiaries. The restart of the Somaïr mine could take nearly two years due to political tensions with the local junta.
en_1140290946540-13
Orano envisages a long and uncertain restart for its uranium mine in Niger
The Orano group faces a difficult restart of its mining operations in Niger after losing control of its subsidiaries. The restart of the Somaïr mine could take nearly two years due to political tensions with the local junta.
en_1140290946540-13
Canadian Nexus Team Ventures Strengthens Its Uranium Portfolio with Strategic Investment in Impact Uranium Group
Canadian Nexus Team Ventures announces a strategic investment in Impact Uranium Group, further solidifying its position in the uranium sector, particularly in the Athabasca Basin, one of the world’s richest uranium deposits.
en_1140290952540-13
Canadian Nexus Team Ventures Strengthens Its Uranium Portfolio with Strategic Investment in Impact Uranium Group
Canadian Nexus Team Ventures announces a strategic investment in Impact Uranium Group, further solidifying its position in the uranium sector, particularly in the Athabasca Basin, one of the world’s richest uranium deposits.
en_1140290952540-13

Rosatom begins discussions on cooperation with Egypt in quantum technology

The Russian public company Rosatom begins talks with Egypt to explore joint projects in quantum technology, with concrete proposals in several high-tech sectors.
Kärnfull Next secures land rights for its small modular reactor project in Sweden
Kärnfull Next has secured land rights for its small modular reactor (SMR) project in Valdemarsvik, southeastern Sweden. This milestone marks a key step towards nuclear power generation in the region.
en_1140290959540-11
Kärnfull Next secures land rights for its small modular reactor project in Sweden
Kärnfull Next has secured land rights for its small modular reactor (SMR) project in Valdemarsvik, southeastern Sweden. This milestone marks a key step towards nuclear power generation in the region.
en_1140290959540-11
Last Energy Enters Licensing Process for Its Microreactor Project in Wales
US developer Last Energy submits its nuclear site licence application for a microreactor project on the former Llynfi coal-fired power plant site in Bridgend, Wales.
en_1140290955540-12
Last Energy Enters Licensing Process for Its Microreactor Project in Wales
US developer Last Energy submits its nuclear site licence application for a microreactor project on the former Llynfi coal-fired power plant site in Bridgend, Wales.
en_1140290955540-12
Nuclear: IAEA Inspection at Fukushima for Soil Decontamination
The Director of the IAEA visits Fukushima to oversee decontamination efforts, a key step in managing nuclear waste after the 2011 disaster.
en_1140290949540-12
Nuclear: IAEA Inspection at Fukushima for Soil Decontamination
The Director of the IAEA visits Fukushima to oversee decontamination efforts, a key step in managing nuclear waste after the 2011 disaster.
en_1140290949540-12

Everstar raises $4 million to modernize nuclear compliance with AI

Startup Everstar has secured $4 million in pre-seed funding to develop Gordian, its artificial intelligence platform dedicated to optimizing regulatory processes in the nuclear sector. Backed by strategic investors, the company aims to accelerate the deployment of nuclear energy.
Inspection by the IAEA at Fukushima: Progress of the Decommissioning and Strategic Issues
The Director of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, visited Fukushima to oversee the soil decontamination efforts and the decommissioning of the nuclear plant. This visit comes as Japan intensifies its efforts to manage radioactive waste and increase the transparency of its nuclear program.
en_1140290950540-11
Inspection by the IAEA at Fukushima: Progress of the Decommissioning and Strategic Issues
The Director of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, visited Fukushima to oversee the soil decontamination efforts and the decommissioning of the nuclear plant. This visit comes as Japan intensifies its efforts to manage radioactive waste and increase the transparency of its nuclear program.
en_1140290950540-11
Natura Resources Launches Two Advanced Nuclear Deployments in Texas
Natura Resources has announced the launch of two advanced nuclear reactor deployment projects in Texas, marking a turning point in the evolution of nuclear energy production in the region.
en_1140290954540-11
Natura Resources Launches Two Advanced Nuclear Deployments in Texas
Natura Resources has announced the launch of two advanced nuclear reactor deployment projects in Texas, marking a turning point in the evolution of nuclear energy production in the region.
en_1140290954540-11
Kazakhstan Signs First Uranium Supply Deal with Switzerland
Kazatomprom will supply natural uranium concentrate to Switzerland for the first time under a contract with Axpo. This transaction aligns with Switzerland's strategy to secure energy supplies amid declining Russian gas deliveries.
en_1140290987540
Kazakhstan Signs First Uranium Supply Deal with Switzerland
Kazatomprom will supply natural uranium concentrate to Switzerland for the first time under a contract with Axpo. This transaction aligns with Switzerland's strategy to secure energy supplies amid declining Russian gas deliveries.
en_1140290987540

Newcleo initiates land acquisition for its SMR reactor in France

Newcleo has started the land acquisition process for its LFR-AS-30 small modular reactor in western France. The Italian company continues its regulatory procedures and plans to commission its first reactor in France by 2031.
India and the United States move forward with nuclear cooperation on US-designed reactors
India and the United States strengthen their energy cooperation with an agreement for the construction of US-designed nuclear reactors on Indian soil. The two nations also commit to regulatory adjustments to remove obstacles to nuclear technology trade.
en_1140290978540
India and the United States move forward with nuclear cooperation on US-designed reactors
India and the United States strengthen their energy cooperation with an agreement for the construction of US-designed nuclear reactors on Indian soil. The two nations also commit to regulatory adjustments to remove obstacles to nuclear technology trade.
en_1140290978540
Fukushima: Tepco accelerates the removal of water tanks to store radioactive debris
Tepco has begun dismantling treated water tanks at the Fukushima Daiichi site. The goal is to free up space for storing radioactive debris still present in the reactors, a key step in the plant's decommissioning process.
en_1140290971540
Fukushima: Tepco accelerates the removal of water tanks to store radioactive debris
Tepco has begun dismantling treated water tanks at the Fukushima Daiichi site. The goal is to free up space for storing radioactive debris still present in the reactors, a key step in the plant's decommissioning process.
en_1140290971540
Chernobyl: The Economic Impact of Strikes on the Confinement Arch
The attack of an explosive drone on the Chernobyl confinement arch raises questions about the security of critical infrastructure. The incident, confirmed by the IAEA, could have repercussions on energy markets and the management of nuclear assets.
en_1140290976540
Chernobyl: The Economic Impact of Strikes on the Confinement Arch
The attack of an explosive drone on the Chernobyl confinement arch raises questions about the security of critical infrastructure. The incident, confirmed by the IAEA, could have repercussions on energy markets and the management of nuclear assets.
en_1140290976540

HD Korea Shipbuilding Unveils Nuclear-Powered Ship Model Using Small Modular Reactor (SMR)

HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering has revealed a nuclear-powered container ship model utilizing Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology, emphasizing economic efficiency and safety, marking a turning point in the maritime industry.
Brazil: Eletronuclear optimizes costs and postpones Angra 3 to 2031
Eletronuclear has announced a restructuring plan aimed at improving governance and the economic viability of its nuclear projects. The commissioning of Angra 3 is now scheduled for 2031, following multiple construction interruptions and budget adjustments.
en_1140290958540-8
Brazil: Eletronuclear optimizes costs and postpones Angra 3 to 2031
Eletronuclear has announced a restructuring plan aimed at improving governance and the economic viability of its nuclear projects. The commissioning of Angra 3 is now scheduled for 2031, following multiple construction interruptions and budget adjustments.
en_1140290958540-8
Switzerland : Emergency shutdown of Beznau Reactor 2 after human error
Reactor 2 of the Beznau nuclear power plant, the oldest in Europe, was shut down in an emergency following an incorrect operation during a routine inspection. The Axpo group assures that safety was maintained and that a restart is under review.
en_1140290944540-8
Switzerland : Emergency shutdown of Beznau Reactor 2 after human error
Reactor 2 of the Beznau nuclear power plant, the oldest in Europe, was shut down in an emergency following an incorrect operation during a routine inspection. The Axpo group assures that safety was maintained and that a restart is under review.
en_1140290944540-8
Europe accelerates the conversion of research reactors to low-enriched fuel
The European project EU-CONVERSION aims to develop new fuels to convert research reactors that currently use highly enriched uranium. This initiative, supported by scientific institutions and industry players, represents a key issue for nuclear safety and non-proliferation.
en_1140290957540-6
Europe accelerates the conversion of research reactors to low-enriched fuel
The European project EU-CONVERSION aims to develop new fuels to convert research reactors that currently use highly enriched uranium. This initiative, supported by scientific institutions and industry players, represents a key issue for nuclear safety and non-proliferation.
en_1140290957540-6

Spain: Strengthening of Nuclear Regulatory Framework Praised by the IAEA

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed Spain’s progress in nuclear and radiological safety. A review mission highlighted the improvement of the regulatory framework and the implementation of recommendations made in 2018.
London Opens the Door to Small Nuclear Reactors to Revive Energy
The UK government is easing restrictions on nuclear power plant construction, particularly small modular reactors (SMRs). While this technology is still under development, it attracts several companies but poses technical and financial challenges.
en_1140290953540-5
London Opens the Door to Small Nuclear Reactors to Revive Energy
The UK government is easing restrictions on nuclear power plant construction, particularly small modular reactors (SMRs). While this technology is still under development, it attracts several companies but poses technical and financial challenges.
en_1140290953540-5
Canadian Nuclear Laboratories expands its energy siting program to hydrogen and storage
Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) is expanding its energy technology siting program to include fusion, hydrogen, and battery storage. This initiative aims to attract investors and industrial players to accelerate the development and commercialization of new energy solutions in Canada.
en_1140290949540-4
Canadian Nuclear Laboratories expands its energy siting program to hydrogen and storage
Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) is expanding its energy technology siting program to include fusion, hydrogen, and battery storage. This initiative aims to attract investors and industrial players to accelerate the development and commercialization of new energy solutions in Canada.
en_1140290949540-4
Belgium: The government aims to double nuclear capacity by 2035
The new Belgian government, led by Bart De Wever, plans to expand the country's nuclear capacity to 8 gigawatts, including the extension of existing reactors and the construction of new units. This decision requires a revision of the 2003 law on nuclear phase-out.
en_1140290943540-4
Belgium: The government aims to double nuclear capacity by 2035
The new Belgian government, led by Bart De Wever, plans to expand the country's nuclear capacity to 8 gigawatts, including the extension of existing reactors and the construction of new units. This decision requires a revision of the 2003 law on nuclear phase-out.
en_1140290943540-4

Advertising

LEGAL

FOSSILS

POLICY

RENEWABLE

PLUS

VERVANT

Welcome

Your subscription

Included in this subscription:

COMMUNICATE ON ENERGYNEWS