AtkinsRéalis business Candu Energy Inc., has signed a memorandum of understanding with the National Atomic Energy Commission (CNEA) of Argentina— the government agency devoted to research and development in the field of the peaceful uses of nuclear energy— to produce heavy water.
The MOU provides for the restart of the Industrial Heavy Water Plant (PIAP) in Neuquén, Argentina, along with the long-term acquisition of its heavy water output.
It also provides for planning related to the establishment of one or more similar heavy water production facilities in Canada.
These developments will support the ongoing operation of existing CANDU® reactors in Canada and around the world, as well as the commissioning of new CANDU units globally.
AtkinsRéalis is the original equipment manufacturer of the Government of Canada-owned CANDU technology.
"This MOU is a significant investment for Canada in the global heavy water market during this renaissance period for the nuclear industry," says Joe St.
Julian, President, Nuclear, AtkinsRéalis. "Following commitments at COP 28, a growing market for 1,000 new reactors and demand for CANDU technology, including refurbishment projects and a fleet of reactors like the CANDU MONARK™ and Enhanced CANDU 6®, investing in heavy water capacity supports the expansion of CANDU reactor infrastructure domestically and internationally.”
Heavy water is used as a moderator and coolant in CANDU reactors.
This unique aspect is why CANDU technology uses unenriched uranium fuel, which enhances energy security and safety.
Securing Immediate Supply from Argentina
With an office in Buenos Aires, AtkinsRéalis has long-standing experience in the Argentinian nuclear market, stemming from decades supporting their Embalse CANDU reactor.
The PIAP is owned by CNEA.
Originally commissioned around 30 years ago, the facility has supplied Argentina’s CANDU reactor, as well as exported heavy water to various countries.
The proven and licensable facility is expected to resume operation as early as 2027.
Following commitments at COP 28, a growing market for 1,000 new reactors and demand for CANDU technology,
Following basic refurbishment work supported by AtkinsRéalis, it will provide an immediate near-term supply for CANDU reactor needs.
“This agreement represents an important step for CNEA and for the province of Neuquén.
The PIAP, located in this province, will receive investments aimed at its refurbishment and the incorporation of new personnel to work.
In this sense, we are proud to have reached this understanding with AtkinsRéalis, which will allow the plant to be commissioned.
Although the facility has not been operating for eight years, it has remained in good condition, which gives us an excellent opportunity to reactivate its operation," says Dr.
Ing.
Germán Guido Lavalle, President, CNEA.
Energy Security and Domestic Heavy Water Plant
For longer-term heavy water needs, the PIAP facility and the technology it is based on provide an opportunity for the establishment of a new, permanent, large-scale heavy water production facility in Canada.
The location and production capacity of such a plant will be drawn up in coordination with government bodies and CANDU utility customers.
Such a production facility would dramatically increase Canada’s energy security, create high-paying jobs and provide a secure supply of the heavy water needed for current and future CANDU reactors.
It would also strategically position Canada as one of the few suppliers of this critical input to the global nuclear super cycle, strengthening its status as a Tier-1 nuclear nation.
