Poland Begins Design Phase for Small BWRX-300 Nuclear Reactor

Poland is entering a crucial phase in developing nuclear energy based on small modular reactor (SMR) technology. The company Orlen Synthos Green Energy has officially launched the design phase for the BWRX-300 reactor, planned for construction in Stalowa Wola. The agreement with the American technology provider, General Electric Hitachi Nuclear Energy, valued at over 100 million dollars, includes the development of conceptual and detailed designs. This is a milestone step that moves the project from the phase of preliminary studies and analyses to concrete engineering work necessary for applying for permits and environmental assessments. The contract value, estimated at over 100 million dollars, underscores the scale of financial commitment at this stage. Design work is a sine qua non condition for further progress of the investment. OSGE already has a preliminary location opinion from the National Atomic Energy Agency for the site in Stalowa Wola, which was one of the requirements to begin this phase. Poland's nuclear program, reactivated after years of stagnation, aims to diversify the country's energy mix, which has historically relied on coal. The drive to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increased energy security following Russia's aggression against Ukraine have accelerated decisions to invest in zero-emission sources, including nuclear energy. The BWRX-300 project is being implemented in parallel with the government's undertaking to build a large nuclear power plant in Lubiatowo-Kopalino by the company Polish Nuclear Power Plants. The OSGE initiative also fits into the broader context of international cooperation, particularly with the United States. During President Andrzej Duda's visit to Washington in 2024, a strategic partnership in nuclear energy and climate was announced. American technological, financial, and political support for Poland's nuclear program is seen as an element strengthening Central and Eastern Europe's energy security and moving away from fossil fuels, including Russian resources. The BWRX-300 technology, being a simplified version of proven boiling water reactors, is intended to offer lower investment costs and shorter construction times due to modularity, which is crucial for accelerating the energy transition. „We are excited to support Poland„s clean energy transition” (We are excited to support Poland's clean energy transition) — GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy. The success of the project in Stalowa Wola could pave the way for building further units of this type in Poland, contributing to achieving climate goals and stabilizing the power system.