Warsaw, Poland — Poland says it has chosen the US and Westinghouse governments to build its first nuclear power plant, announcing an important step in its efforts to burn less coal and gain more energy independence.
Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said late Friday that the Polish nuclear power project would use “safe, reliable technology” from Westinghouse Electric Company, adding that there was a strong alliance between Poland and the United States “guarantee the success of our joint initiatives”.
Poland has been planning for years to build a nuclear power plant to gain more energy independence and replace aging coal plants in a country with the worst air pollution levels. in Europe.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and its use of energy as a tool in the context of its greater confrontational relationship with the West, has added importance to the search for Polish energy alternatives. .
US Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm said the $40 billion project would create or maintain more than 100,000 jobs for American workers.
“This is a BIG step in strengthening our relationship with Poland to create energy security for future generations. We are delighted to continue this partnership to accelerate the clean energy transition with our partners in Europe,” Granholm tweeted.
“This announcement also sends a clear message to Russia: We will not let them weaponize energy anymore,” Granholm said.
The deal is for the first three reactors of a nuclear power plant to be built in northern Poland, with officials saying they will start generating electricity in 2033. Poland has also watched considered proposals from France and Korea.
The United States is one of the most important allies of NATO member Poland. After Russia invaded Ukraine in February, it increased its military presence in the country, creating a permanent presence for the first time and using Poland as a hub for sending weapons to Ukraine.
State Property Minister Jacek Sasin hinted that South Korea could still have a role in the project, saying that “this is not our last word” and that more talks will be held in Seoul next week. Next week involves major nuclear energy project.
