China has recently completed a factory to build modules for AP1000 nuclear reactors. The 71000 square meter factory was completed in 11 months and can build the parts for two AP1000 reactors each year. China is wanting 100 Westinghouse AP1000 reactors to be built by 2020.
USA plans
This is very good news for the USA, which looked like until recently we were taking apass on new nuclear power generation capabilites. -- Now a similar factory will be built in Louisiana and operating by the third quarter of 2009. Westinghouse and partner Shaw Group are providing four new plants in China, and they have been identified for no less than 14 plants in the United States. Other markets are fast emerging. A global system of dedicated factories producing identical models should enable far greater standardisation of nuclear power plants - as well as speedier construction.
JM Bernhard, chair, president and CEO of Shaw, said: "After an extensive search of potential sites, the Port of Lake Charles was chosen because of its deep water access, its proximity to other important modes of transportation and the availability of a skilled workforce. The state of Louisiana also offered a very competitive incentive package that will help us continue to create value for our shareholders."Toshiba of Japan - majority owner of Westinghouse - is preparing for future of nuclear power plant contracts by forming business partnerships with component suppliers, including Ishikawajima-Harima Industries (IHI) of Japan and Doosan Heavy Industries of South Korea.
Russia is speeding up and expanding its nuclear power plant construction. Two reactors planned for 2016 have been moved up to 2015 and changed to a larger design.
No comments:
Post a Comment