Hyundai Engineering & Construction (Hyundai E&C), a leading South Korean builder with extensive experience in global infrastructure and energy projects, has partnered with Westinghouse to support a new nuclear power initiative in Finland.
On June 23, Hyundai E&C and Westinghouse signed an Early Work Agreement (EWA) with Fortum, Finland’s state-owned energy company, to explore the potential deployment of the AP1000 nuclear reactor. The agreement covers preliminary project planning, site evaluations, and regulatory reviews.
The EWA marks a significant step toward the potential introduction of the AP1000, a Generation III pressurized water reactor (PWR) known for its modular design and smaller land footprint. Currently, six AP1000 units are in operation worldwide, with 18 more expected to come online over the next decade.
Under the agreement, the three companies will conduct a two-year feasibility study to assess the commercial, technical, and social conditions necessary for deploying the reactor.
Hyundai E&C and Westinghouse had previously been shortlisted by Fortum in March as potential technology partners for the project. Fortum has been conducting feasibility studies since October 2022 to evaluate new nuclear options in both Finland and Sweden.
Fortum currently operates the Loviisa Nuclear Power Plant, which consists of two VVER-440 PWR units commissioned in 1977 and 1981, respectively. The company plans to extend the operational life of the plant until 2050.
