South Korea’s Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) has finalized a landmark deal to build two nuclear reactors in the Czech Republic, ending a 16-year drought in overseas nuclear exports for the country.
The Czech government approved the budget for the 26 trillion won ($17.3 billion) project on April 30, with the contract scheduled for signing on May 7. The agreement for the construction of Dukovany Units 5 and 6 represents South Korea’s first major nuclear export since the 2009 UAE Barakah project.
The Czech contract emerged after KHNP outbid France’s EDF last July in what officials described as superior performance “in practically all criteria.” Construction of the two 1,000 MW reactors is slated to begin in 2029, with the first unit operational by 2036.
Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala has emphasized the strategic importance of the project, stating it will ensure “energy self-sufficiency” and provide “sufficient energy supplies at an affordable price.” The deal includes approximately 60% involvement from Czech industry, potentially creating thousands of skilled jobs.
For South Korea, the victory signals a resurgence in its nuclear export ambitions. KHNP President Hwang Joo-ho pledged the company would “do our utmost for the successful conclusion” of the contract and timely completion of the project.
Following the main contract, KHNP plans to formalize agreements with Korean companies including Doosan Enerbility and Daewoo Engineering & Construction for design, construction, and equipment procurement. The Korean consortium will supply key components previously provided by Westinghouse in prior projects.
