Further step in Indian nuclear project

French nuclear and renewable energy specialist Areva has signed a pre-engineering agreement with the Indian government body Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) to pave the way for the licensing of its third generation pressurised water reactor (EPR) technology in India. In a linked agreement, Areva has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with India’s largest contractor, Larsen & Toubro (L&T), to explore potential collaboration on the project.

The agreement between Areva and NPCIL was signed in the presence of Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, and French President François Hollande. It follows a 2009 MoU to build up to six EPR reactors at Jaitapur. In 2010 a general framework agreement for the first two reactors was signed. Areva said this latest agreement would lead to it and NPCIL finalising the technical details of the project.

The agreement between Areva and L&T includes provisions to maximise the local content of the project. It covers the potential manufacturing of key components including valves, piping and electrical, instrumentation in India, along with associated engineering work.

A statement from L&T said, “Through this partnership, Areva will transfer technology to utilise the forging capabilities of L&T Special Steels & Heavy Forgings (a joint venture with NPCIL). The partnership will support the Indian Government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative and enhance the competitiveness of the Jaitapur project.”