Poland Advances Nuclear Energy with Westinghouse-Bechtel Deal

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Poland is accelerating its transition to low-carbon energy sources, with nuclear power emerging as a critical component. A recent agreement between Polskie Elektrownie Jądrowe (PEJ), Westinghouse Electric Co., and Bechtel represents the first concrete step toward building Poland’s inaugural nuclear power plant.

The deal underscores Warsaw’s commitment to reshaping its energy landscape and reducing emissions, while also strengthening its energy security in a region where geopolitical risks continue to cast long shadows. The nuclear project is part of a wider national energy strategy that seeks to reduce coal’s dominance and align with EU climate goals.

The engineering development agreement outlines a robust collaboration

In late April 2025, the three parties signed an Engineering Development Agreement (EDA) to initiate design and planning work for the Lubiatowo-Kopalino nuclear project. This agreement lays the foundation for a full engineering, procurement, and construction contract expected in the coming years. The goal is to begin operations in the early 2030s.

Under the terms of the EDA, Westinghouse will provide its AP1000 reactor technology and nuclear expertise, while Bechtel will serve as the engineering and construction partner. PEJ, as the project owner, will oversee regulatory compliance, funding, and integration into the national grid. This collaborative structure is modeled on other large-scale nuclear efforts, ensuring accountability and operational efficiency from the outset.

AP1000 technology offers a new standard in nuclear performance

At the core of the project is the AP1000 reactor, a third-generation pressurized water reactor developed by Westinghouse. Known for its passive safety systems and modular construction, the AP1000 has already been licensed and deployed in several countries, including the United States and China. Its design minimizes the need for active safety responses during potential emergencies, significantly reducing operational risks.

For Poland, this means a modern, scalable solution that matches both energy capacity needs and safety requirements. The technology is also intended to streamline construction timelines, which historically have hampered nuclear projects in Europe. With four AP1000 units successfully running in China and others nearing completion, the model offers a proven path for countries entering the nuclear arena.

Lubiatowo-Kopalino was chosen with long-term viability in mind

Located in the northern Pomeranian Voivodeship near the Baltic Sea, the Lubiatowo-Kopalino site was selected after a thorough review of more than 90 potential locations. The decision was guided by environmental assessments, infrastructure potential, and regional energy needs. The area offers proximity to key transmission networks and has favorable geological conditions for nuclear development.

Community engagement has also played a role. Local officials have emphasized the potential for job creation and regional economic growth, particularly through construction, technical services, and long-term plant operations. Still, environmental and safety concerns will require careful attention as the project moves through regulatory approval stages.

Poland’s nuclear plan fits into a broader energy strategy

This nuclear buildout is one pillar of Poland’s 2040 Energy Policy, which calls for six to nine gigawatts of nuclear capacity and a diversified mix of renewables and gas. The strategy aligns with European Union emissions targets and positions Poland to gradually reduce its reliance on imported fuels, particularly natural gas from Russia.

If successful, the Lubiatowo-Kopalino plant could deliver up to 3.75 GW of power and cover roughly 10 percent of Poland’s total electricity demand. Alongside offshore wind and solar expansions, nuclear energy is seen as a stable, long-duration asset to support intermittent renewables and bolster grid reliability.

The deal between PEJ, Westinghouse, and Bechtel represents a major shift in Central European energy policy. It signals that Poland is ready to embrace advanced nuclear power as a tool for decarbonization and energy independence. The agreement also deepens energy ties between the United States and Poland, reinforcing transatlantic cooperation in an era marked by energy insecurity. Construction timelines and financing hurdles remain ahead, but the foundation is now in place for a generational project.

Sources:

• World Nuclear News
• Westinghouse Nuclear