Westinghouse Electric Company, Hyundai Engineering & Construction Co., and Bulgaria’s Kozloduy NPP – New Build EAD have officially signed an Engineering Services Contract to develop two AP1000® reactors at the Kozloduy site. The signing ceremony in Sofia was attended by prominent leaders, including Bulgarian Prime Minister Dimitar Glavchev, Minister of Energy Vladimir Malinov, U.S. Ambassador to Bulgaria Kenneth Merten, Kozloduy NPP – New Build Executive Director Petyo Ivanov, Westinghouse Energy Systems Senior Vice President Elias Gedeon, and Hyundai Engineering & Construction President and CEO Yoon Young-Joon.
The contract outlines site planning for two Westinghouse AP1000® units, the most advanced Generation III+ nuclear reactors currently available. It also includes support for licensing and permitting processes and comprehensive project planning, as well as operations and maintenance development. The initial work under this 12-month contract will commence immediately.
Bulgaria has over 50 years of experience in constructing nuclear facilities,” said Prime Minister Dimitar Glavchev. “Today’s agreement builds on that legacy, enhancing our independence, diversification, and energy stability. We are proud to collaborate with Westinghouse and Hyundai, leaders in nuclear technology, and I am confident in the project’s success. The Bulgarian government will provide maximum support for its implementation.
Minister of Energy Vladimir Malinov emphasized the importance of nuclear energy: “Our administration is dedicated to advancing nuclear power. Our ongoing efforts have brought us to this important milestone. We thank Westinghouse and Hyundai for joining forces, and we anticipate that, within a decade, we will deliver affordable, clean energy for Bulgaria.”
U.S. Ambassador Kenneth Merten highlighted the significance of the project for energy security: “The United States fully supports Bulgaria’s drive to diversify its energy sector. The construction of these reactors will strengthen Bulgaria’s position as an energy hub while employing advanced American technology with unmatched safety standards.”
Dan Lipman, President of Westinghouse Energy Systems, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership: We are excited to deepen our relationship with Bulgaria by constructing two cutting-edge AP1000 reactors that will enhance the country’s energy security. This project will deliver clean, stable power and create economic opportunities, fostering energy independence for Bulgaria.
The first AP1000 reactor in Bulgaria is expected to be operational by 2035. Westinghouse has also signed agreements with 22 Bulgarian suppliers to support the project, which will provide opportunities for local firms and link them to a global network of over 30 planned AP1000 units.
The AP1000 reactor stands out as the only operating Generation III+ design, featuring passive safety systems, modular construction, and a compact footprint. Globally, the technology has proven reliable, with four AP1000 reactors in China setting performance records and two operational units at the Vogtle site in Georgia. The AP1000 is also a key component of nuclear programs in Poland, Ukraine, and other regions, with plans for 18 units in operation by the end of the decade.
Westinghouse Electric Company continues to lead in carbon-free energy innovation, leveraging over 135 years of technological advancements. The company’s legacy includes supplying the first commercial pressurized water reactor in 1957, and its technology underpins nearly half of the world’s nuclear power plants. Learn more at www.westinghousenuclear.com and follow Westinghouse on Facebook, LinkedIn, and X.
