Ansaldo Energia, Ansaldo Nucleare, EDF and Edison (part of the EDF Group since 2012) have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to collaborate on the development of new nuclear power in Europe. The agreement aims to leverage the expertise of the Italian nuclear power sector, headed by Ansaldo Nucleare, in order to support the development of EDF Group's new nuclear projects. It also aims to initiate a debate on the possible role of new nuclear power in Italy's energy transition.
The four companies will investigate possible industrial cooperation, drawing on their respective skills. Ansaldo Energia Group will contribute its skills as a developer of engineering components and service provider for the energy and nuclear industry. EDF, a key nuclear energy producer, is also involved in new nuclear projects including its small modular reactor (SMR) Nuward, the mid-size EPR1200 reactor and large-size EPR reactor. Edison is a leading Italian energy player, fully engaged in Italy's energy transition.
EDF and Ansaldo Nucleare recently signed a first contract for provision of engineering studies for Nuward.
Ansaldo Energia Group, EDF and Edison will also assess the potential for the development and implementation of new nuclear power in Italy, given the growing need for energy security and independence of the Italian electricity system. Subsequent binding agreements, to be defined by the parties, will follow.
Edison CEO Nicola Monti says the agreement lays the foundations for a concrete and open reflection on the role of new nuclear power in supporting Italian energy transition. “This need has become more evident following the upheavals of the past year, confirming the importance of long-term strategic choices,” he notes. “New nuclear power complements the development of renewables and can be an adequate solution to support the 2050 carbon neutrality goals, contributing to the energy independence of the European system.”
Ansaldo Nucleare CEO Riccardo Casale points out that Ansaldo Energia Group has managed to successfully keep its nuclear expertise alive, after the nuclear phase-out in Italy. «We strongly believe in this mission and actively participate in many projects in several European countries, in collaboration with Italian industries and research organisations, testifying to the high added value that Italy can bring to the renewed interest in nuclear power in Europe.”
Vakis Ramany, EDF Senior Vice President in charge of international new nuclear development, affirms EDF’s willingness “to strengthen the cooperation with the Italian industry” adding that the Letter of Intent with Ansaldo Energia, Ansaldo Nucleare and Edison “is a first important step towards a stronger and lasting partnership”.
Italy adopted a nuclear phaseout policy after a 1987 post-Chernobyl referendum. It has four nuclear reactors undergoing decommissioning. In 2008 a new pro-nuclear government announced plans to start building NPPSs to reduce dependence on oil, gas and power imports. However, the plans were scrapped following Fukushima.
Despite this, Ansaldo Nucleare has continued to develop its nuclear technologies including: the production of critical high-tech components; the design and construction of new builds; decommissioning; advanced research on radwaste management; fusion; and Generation IV plants and SMRs.
Image courtesy of Ansaldo Energia