Hyundai Engineering & Construction (Hyundai E&C) has won a bid to construct a new nuclear power plant in Bulgaria, marking a significant milestone in the company's global nuclear energy business. This is Hyundai E&C's largest overseas nuclear power plant project since the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the United Arab Emirates in 2009.

The company announced on [Date] that it had signed a design contract with the Bulgarian Nuclear Energy Company (KNPP NB) for the construction of a new nuclear power plant at the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant site, located approximately 200 kilometers north of Sofia.

The project involves the construction of two additional large-scale nuclear reactors at the existing Kozloduy site. Hyundai E&C will be working in consortium with Westinghouse Electric Company to execute the project. The first phase, which includes the design of the balance of plant (BOP) and site infrastructure, as well as securing necessary permits, is expected to be completed within 12 months. The main engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract is scheduled to be signed by the end of next year, with the entire project expected to be completed by 2035.

The Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant, which began commercial operations in 1974, currently houses two Russian-designed VVER-1000 reactors. The new units 7 and 8 will be equipped with Westinghouse AP1000 reactors.

"With the strong support of the Korean government and leveraging our extensive experience in the nuclear power sector, we are confident in successfully constructing the Kozloduy nuclear power plant," said a Hyundai E&C official. "This project will not only contribute to enhancing Bulgaria's energy security but also expand Hyundai E&C's influence in the European nuclear power market."

The project is expected to significantly boost Hyundai E&C's presence in the global nuclear power market and strengthen its position as a leading engineering and construction company.

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]