Framatome has been selected by Electrabel to carry out two major modernisation and maintenance projects on Belgium’s Tihange 3 and Doel 4 nuclear reactors. These contracts follow the agreement signed in 2023 between the Belgian government and Engie to extend the operational life of both pressurized water reactors (PWR).
Complete modernisation of the RIC system at Tihange 3
The first project concerns the complete replacement of the Reactor Internal Instrumentation System (RIC) at Tihange 3 reactor. This multi-year project encompasses preliminary studies, supply of necessary electrical, electronic and mechanical components, as well as their installation and on-site maintenance.
The RIC system is crucial for the precise operation of the nuclear reactor. It accurately measures neutron power distribution inside the reactor core, thus ensuring compliance with technical forecasts. Its complete renewal represents a major project to ensure safe and reliable operation.
Maintenance of primary reactor coolant pumps
The second contract provides for the modernisation, maintenance, and operational support of motors and stators of primary reactor coolant pumps (Groupes Moto-Pompes Primaires – GMPP) of Tihange 3 and Doel 4 reactors. The project includes supplying essential spare parts for these critical components. Located within the primary loop of the plants, GMPP play a fundamental role in the overall safety and efficiency of nuclear installations.
Framatome possesses extensive experience in manufacturing, maintaining, and repairing internals, motors, and stators of GMPP. These activities are primarily conducted in the group’s French factories located in Jeumont and Maubeuge, northern France.
Confirmation of a sustainable partnership
Frédéric Lelièvre, Senior Executive Vice President in charge of Sales, Regional Platforms, and the Instrumentation and Control Business Unit at Framatome, stated that “these two contracts illustrate Electrabel’s renewed confidence in Framatome and our ability to support our customers in modernising their nuclear installations.” He added: “We are proud to contribute to the extension of the operational lifetime and the safety of Belgium’s nuclear fleet.”
According to him, these contracts strengthen Framatome’s long-term commitment to ensuring “safe, economical, reliable, and low-carbon” electricity production in Belgium. These agreements align with the broader European strategy of extending the lifetime of existing nuclear power plants, maintaining a competitive energy mix, and ensuring energy security across the continent.
