Nuclearelectrica (SNN) and Nucleoelectrica Argentina Sociedad Anonima (NASA) signed today, 17 September 2026, a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding for cooperation in the operation and development of CANDU 6 technology.
Both SN Nuclearelectrica SA and Nucleoelectrica Argentina Sociedad Anonima operate CANDU 6 technology; both companies possess the capabilities, technical expertise and relevant experience in engineering, operation, maintenance, major project management, life extension, nuclear safety analyses and the operation of nuclear reactors using CANDU 6 technology.
Furthermore, Nucleoelectrica Argentina Sociedad Anonima has completed the refurbishment of the Embalse power station, a plant operating CANDU technology, with Nuclearelectrica currently in the second phase of the refurbishment of Unit 1 at the Cernavodă Nuclear Power Plant and in the second phase of implementing the Units 3 and 4 Project; both parties will contribute to strengthening the nuclear industry by sharing best practices based on their own experience in operating CANDU 6 technology.
The collaboration between the two companies and the exchange of expertise represent a tangible advantage in the implementation of the Cernavoda Nuclear Power Plant Unit 1 Refurbishment Project and reaffirm Nuclearelectrica’s commitment to carrying out the project to the highest standards.
The parties will therefore explore opportunities in areas such as: technical aspects relating to CANDU 6 technology, reactor life extension, refurbishment and modernisation processes, materials engineering, electrical, mechanical and civil engineering, control processes and instruments, nuclear safety analyses, fluid dynamics, reactor physics, support for the construction of new units, commissioning experience, etc., by drawing on the experience gained over time and their shared desire for development.
The two companies will establish a Steering Committee responsible for advancing the workflow to support the exploration of opportunities and the further development of cooperation.
“Cooperation in key technical areas between two CANDU nuclear operators represents an effective bilateral contribution dedicated to the continuous improvement and development of operations, based on best practices and lessons learnt, as well as modernisation processes, project implementation and the commissioning of new capacity – in effect, a peer review with concrete bilateral benefits in the medium and long term. Both companies have extensive experience in operating CANDU 6 technology and both are committed to strengthening the nuclear industry at local and global level, having made a significant contribution over the years. I value this partnership and am convinced that the technical teams of the two companies will achieve notable results.” – Mihai Gioara, Director of Development and Portfolio Management.
The contribution of nuclear energy to ensuring energy security, the supply chain and broad economic development is essential, and the development of centres of expertise is a necessity with long-term benefits.