Rosatom, Brazil's Eletrobras discuss potential collaboration on nuclear plant
MOSCOW. Nov 27 (Interfax) - Rosatom and Brazil's Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras (Eletrobras) and Eletrobras Termonuclear S.A. (Eletronuclear) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote cooperation in the field of nuclear power, the Russian state nuclear corporation said in a press release, posted on its website.
The MoU is aimed at promoting mutual cooperation in the peaceful use of atomic energy, including the potential construction of new nuclear power plant in the Federal Republic of Brazil and life-cycle support (including operation, maintenance and decommissioning); nuclear fuel management; life extension of existing nuclear power plants in the Federal Republic of Brazil; education and training of nuclear power personnel in the Federal Republic of Brazil; and enhancement of public awareness of the country's nuclear power program.
"Cooperation between Russia and Brazil has seen renewed life in recent years. We are implementing the projects in the framework of nuclear fuel cycle and nuclear medicine. The signing of this MoU marks a new phase in our partnership. Brazil has substantial experience in using nuclear technologies and big plans for the development of its national nuclear sector. Meanwhile Rosatom has unique expertise in NPP operation and holds leading positions in the construction of the safest and reference VVER-technology based NPPs. This MoU has set a foundation for bilateral cooperation between our countries," said Kirill Komarov, Rosatom First Deputy General for Corporate Development and International Business.
As reported earlier, Rosatom is vying for the contract to build a spent nuclear fuel storage facility for the Angra nuclear power plant in Brazil, Russian President Vladimir Putin said following talks with Brazilian President Michel Temer. "There are promising projects in nuclear energy. At the beginning of this year the Russian company Rosatom won a tender to provide uranium for Brazilian NPPs. The company would also like to get the contract for the construction of a spent nuclear fuel storage facility on the site of the Angra NPP in Rio de Janeiro State," Putin said.
In May 2016, Komarov told reporters that Rosatom had received a proposal from Brazil to discuss the construction of a NPP. "A month ago we received a question from Eletronuclear, inviting us to start consultations for this project," he said, adding that Rosatom is ready to take part in Brazil's atomic program.
In September 2015, Russia and Brazil signed a memorandum of mutual understanding in nuclear energy. Reports also surfaced in summer 2014 regarding Rosatom's plans to take part in the extension of the Angra NPP.