Slovakia: AP1000 and small modular reactors as the future of Slovakia's energy sector.

Slovakia took decisive steps last week within the framework of the nuclear energy transition. Through two parallel processes – an agreement to build a large-capacity reactor and the introduction of modular reactor technology – Bratislava plans to permanently free itself from dependence on Russian reactor design and fossil fuels

In Washington, therefore, a cooperation agreement on the construction of a new nuclear block with a capacity of 1,200 megawatts at the Jaslovské Bohunice plant was signed. Unlike other models, this reactor will be state-owned, which guarantees direct control over the price of electricity and grid stability. The agreement opens the door for Vestinghaus (AP1000 reactor) to replace the current dominance of Russian technologies in the Slovak electricity system. Prime Minister Fico stressed that this is "a clear signal of joint strategic thinking about the future of safety and sustainability".

In parallel with the publication of progress in the construction of the large-capacity reactor, the results of the study "Project Phoenix" were released, which confirmed that four locations in Slovakia are ideal for the installation of small modular reactors (SMRs). The US Steel Košice location is particularly significant, where nuclear energy is not planned only for the grid, but as a direct replacement for coal in heavy industry. The program's focus is on retraining the workforce from the coal sector to the nuclear sector. SMR units could be operational as early as 2035, providing clean energy for Slovak factories involved in steel production.