Belene announcement imminent

15 January 2008

[Focus, 15 January] Contracts for thecompletion of the Belene nuclear power plant are to be signed on 18January, when Russian President Vladimir Putin visits Bulgaria,according to the country's economy and energy minister, Petar Dimitrov.The minister told a press conference in Sofia that the project would beworth about Eur4 billion ($6 billion) and would result in two ofAtomStroyExport's VVER-1000 reactors. News on the selection of major investors for up to 49% of the project would also be expected. The European Commission issued a 'favourable opinion' of NEK's financial arrangements for Belene in December 2007.

Further information

National Electricity Company (NEK)

WNA's Nuclear Power in Bulgaria information paper

WNN: NEK requests improved Belene offers
WNN: Europe approves of Belene plan

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