Poland says it has chosen US-based Westinghouse Electric Co. over South Korean and French companies to construct its first nuclear power plant under a multi-billion deal, paving the way for the European Union’s most coal-dependent country to reduce its dependency on fossil fuels and curb greenhouse gas emissions.
The decision comes as Russia's invasion of Ukraine has strained the relationships between Russia and Poland.
Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said a formal deal will be signed on Wednesday.
"A strong Poland-U.S. alliance guarantees the success of our joint initiatives. ... we confirm our nuclear energy project will use the reliable, safe technology of [Westinghouse]," he wrote on Twitter.
US Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm welcomed the decision:
"... Poland will select the U.S. government & Westinghouse for the first part of their $40B nuclear project, creating or sustaining 100,000+ jobs for American workers.
This is a HUGE step in strengthening our relationship with Poland 🇵🇱 to create energy security for future generations to come. We are excited to continue this partnership to drive forward a clean energy transition with our counterparts in Europe.
This announcement also sends a clear message to Russia: We will not let them weaponize energy any longer. The West will stand together against this unprovoked aggression, while also diversifying energy supply chains and bolstering climate cooperation."
Poland wants its first nuclear power station up and running by early 2030s and has picked the village of Choczewo near the Baltic coast for the location.
A strong 🇵🇱-🇺🇸alliance guarantees the success of our joint initiatives. After talks with @VP K.Harris and @SecGranholm we confirm our nuclear energy project will use the reliable, safe technology of @WECNuclear. Thank you @USAmbPoland. Council of Ministers resolution on Wednesday
— Mateusz Morawiecki (@MorawieckiM) October 28, 2022
