At a time when the civilized world is trying to break free from dependence on Russian energy resources, Ukraine risks taking a step backward in its energy policy. The controversy surrounds a questionable contract for the purchase of so-called “Bulgarian” reactors for the Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant, which raises more questions than answers.
The story begins with an ambitious plan to expand the Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant, with roots dating back to Soviet times. The original plan included installing two additional VVER-1000 power units – technology considered progressive at the time. Today, attempting to resurrect this project appears anachronistic at best.
This situation with the “Bulgarian” reactors contract was thoroughly described on his Facebook page by Mykyta Solovyov, the Democratic Axe party’s spokesperson for finance and economic affairs.
The first problem emerges at the construction site level. Concrete structures that have been exposed to the elements for over 30 years require complete demolition. Using them is impossible, and building around them is impractical. The only option is to either completely clear the area or find a new construction site.
The situation is complicated by the absence of an up-to-date project design. The euphemism “need for project actualization” masks a simple fact: the original project designers have passed away, and technology has made enormous strides since then.
The technological component raises the most concerns. The reactors planned for purchase are not only of Russian origin – they aren’t even the most advanced in their class. Russia is already installing more modern models in its own territory.
A critical issue is that the reactors are being sold incomplete. The contract only provides for the delivery of basic components, while the remaining equipment was supposed to be supplied with Rosatom’s involvement. This creates three unacceptable options:
- Secretly purchasing additional equipment from Rosatom
- Asking Westinghouse to develop analogues
- Attempting to create in-house solutions with limited resources
Particularly frustrating is the existence of much better alternatives. For example, cooperation could have been established with American Westinghouse by offering rights to develop uranium deposits in Zhovti Vody. Such an agreement could have not only provided Ukraine with modern technology but also strengthened strategic partnership with the United States.
The contract for “Bulgarian” reactors appears to be a series of ill-conceived decisions that could have long-term negative consequences for Ukraine’s energy independence. Even the most optimistic forecasts suggest the project will yield no effect for the next 7-10 years. At a time when Ukraine aspires to energy independence and European integration, such decisions appear particularly irrational.