Nuclearelectrica (SNN) and Framatome signed the collaboration agreement for the production of the medical isotope Lutetium-177 (Lu-177) at the Cernavodă nuclear power plant in Romania. Lutetium-177 is used for a range of vital cancer treatments.

Lutetium-177, crucial in advanced oncology treatments, will be produced using Framatome technology.

“This partnership with Framatome for the production of Lutetium-177 demonstrates our dedication to supporting innovation in nuclear medicine and contributing to advanced cancer treatments. Through this initiative, Romania is aligning with international efforts to develop more effective medical solutions for patients around the world,” said Cosmin Ghiță, CEO of Nuclearelectrica.

Earlier this year, the two companies announced the successful completion of a joint feasibility study which demonstrated the suitability of Framatome’s technology to irradiate Ytterbium176 at Unit 2 of the Cernavoda nuclear power plant, at the market technical standard required to produce Lutetium-based radiopharmaceuticals. Framatome and SNN are now progressing with the detailed engineering and industrialization phase, targeting first production batches for radiopharmaceuticals manufacturing in 2028.

“Nuclear technologies play a crucial role in modern healthcare. They are essential in the fight against cancer and Framatome has a long-standing presence in the field of healthcare,“ said Bernard Fontana, CEO of Framatome. “We are proud to bring our innovative isotope production technology and join forces with SNN to strengthen the supply chain for lifesaving radioisotopes in Europe.”