Framatome Collaborates with European Utilities to Enhance VVER 440 Nuclear Fuel Design
Framatome, a France-based nuclear energy company, has entered into a contract with four European utilities—ČEZ (Czech Republic), Fortum (Finland), MVM Paks NPP (Hungary), and Slovenské elektrárne (Slovakia)—to advance the development of the VVER 440 nuclear fuel design. This agreement marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration aimed at diversifying and securing the fuel supply for 440-MW VVER pressurized water reactors. The project is currently in its initial phase, focusing on the design of the VVER 440 fuel assembly, known as VERA-440, and its transport container. The initiative will proceed with a Lead Test Assembly program to facilitate fuel reload licensing for the utilities' nuclear power plants in Europe. Framatome emphasizes the importance of a 100% European design and supply chain, involving its French and German fuel fabrication facilities. 
