en.Wedoany.com Reported - Finnish nuclear power operator TVO has signed a long-term fuel supply contract with Framatome to secure nuclear fuel supply for the Olkiluoto 3 unit (OL3). The agreement also allows TVO to transition to Framatome's advanced GAIA fuel design after completing necessary refueling licensing activities. The GAIA design represents Framatome's latest innovation in fuel technology, offering enhanced performance, flexibility, and operational efficiency.

As part of the agreement, Framatome will also provide engineering services related to core design and fuel utilization optimization to support the safe and economical operation of the OL3 unit.

Framatome stated that this new contract further consolidates the long-term cooperation relationship between Framatome and TVO, which has spanned more than 30 years, with over three decades of collaboration in nuclear fuel supply for the Olkiluoto boiling water reactors and the EPR. Lionel Gaiffe, Senior Executive Vice President of Framatome's Fuel Business Unit, expressed pride in continuing to support long-term customer TVO by providing reliable and safe fuel assemblies for the OL3 unit. The agreement reflects the trust built between the two parties over many years, as well as their shared commitment to continuous improvement, innovation, and operational excellence in the field of nuclear fuel supply.

Marjo Mustonen, Senior Vice President of Power Production at TVO, stated that the agreement with Framatome strengthens the long-term fuel supply security for the OL3 unit and supports the goal of ensuring safe and efficient power production. The company values strong partnerships and looks forward to continued collaboration in optimizing plant performance. Tuomas Rantala, Head of TVO's Fuel Department, added that the agreement allows for longer operating cycles of up to two years at the OL3 unit, while enhancing supply reliability over the long term based on TVO's diversified procurement approach.

OL3 is a 1,600 MW pressurized water reactor that first achieved criticality on December 21, 2021, was connected to the grid on March 12, 2022, and subsequently entered commercial operation in May of the same year. Together with units 1 and 2 (both 890 MW boiling water reactors), the Olkiluoto power plant produces approximately 30% of Finland's annual electricity consumption.