EDF and Westinghouse Challenge Czech Nuclear Tender Awarded to KHNP

EDF and Westinghouse have contested the Czech government's decision to award a nuclear power plant tender to South Korea's KHNP. This appeal could impact the Czech Republic's largest energy investment. The tender includes building two new nuclear units, with future options, amidst ongoing licensing and arbitration issues.

EDF and Westinghouse have appealed against the Czech government's awarding of a multibillion-dollar nuclear power plant tender to South Korea's KHNP, according to the Czech anti-monopoly office on Tuesday. The appeals pose a potential hurdle for the Czech Republic's most substantial energy investment, which aims to expand nuclear capacity while phasing out coal-fired plants.

KHNP was selected by the government in July to build two new nuclear units, a decision that excluded EDF in the final tender round, with U.S. group Westinghouse not invited. A spokesperson for the Czech anti-monopoly office (UOHS) stated that the appeals will be reviewed, focusing on alleged procedural issues.

Westinghouse claimed that KHNP lacks a licensing agreement to export reactors based on Westinghouse technology, a matter under international arbitration expected to conclude in the latter half of 2025. Meanwhile, KHNP responded that it would address the dispute to prevent adverse effects on the Czech nuclear project.

The Czech government aims to finalize contractual terms with KHNP by early next year. Managed by 70%-state-owned energy firm CEZ, the tender was expanded to include potential additional units beyond the initially planned one. CEZ has received recent objections from other bidders and is preparing responses for the UOHS investigation.

(With inputs from agencies.)