The construction of Poland’s first nuclear power plant is not only an energy project, but also an opportunity for the long-term development of the country’s industrial capabilities. That is why we are so pleased that more and more Polish companies are reaching a level of advancement that allows them to compete for the most demanding contracts in the global nuclear sector. Moving on to the third, and final stage of the qualification process demonstrates that Polish companies are effectively developing their capabilities, and investing in quality and alignment with the highest standards of the nuclear industry. That is exactly how we view our role as an investor responsible for developing the domestic supply chain for the nuclear power sector. Through our efforts, we are creating real opportunities for Polish companies to participate in the project, while also supporting the development of competencies, experience, and know-how that will remain in Poland for many years to come.
The group of companies beginning the third stage of the process includes FAMAK S.A., Ferrum Welded Structures Plant, Mostostal Kielce, Mostostal Siedlce, Mostostal Kraków, and Energomontaż-Północ Gdynia (EPG). In the second stage, the companies developed quality systems and procedures in accordance with the requirements of ASME NQA-1 (Nuclear Quality Assurance-1). This standard specifies requirements for quality assurance programs in the nuclear sector. Meeting these requirements is one of the key conditions for bidding to deliver selected components, services, and works for projects based on AP1000 technology.
The second stage, which is now being completed, involves the transition from the development of quality systems to the practical verification of production readiness in accordance with NQA-1 requirements. The companies have developed procedures, production instructions, workshop drawings, and comprehensive production plans. Another important element of this stage was the certification of personnel performing non-destructive testing (NDT/NDE) and welding personnel. Non-destructive testing allows for the assessment of the quality of materials, welds, and components without damaging their structure, and confirms that products comply with the requirements of the nuclear industry. The companies also trained internal process auditors and implemented systems for managing schedules and monitoring work progress.
We are impressed by the pace at which Polish companies are adapting their quality assurance systems and building their capabilities to meet the requirements for suppliers in the nuclear sector. The start of the third stage indicates that our domestic companies are able to adapt quickly to new standards and have enormous potential to play a significant role not only in the project to build Poland’s first nuclear power plant.Together with Polskie Elektrownie Jądrowe, we are encouraging more Polish companies to follow a similar path, which could open up access to global markets for them, by participating in the supply chain for planned nuclear power plant construction projects. Interest in nuclear energy is growing globally, and one of the key drivers is the rising demand for carbon-free and stable energy, particularly from emerging data centers. Ever since Westinghouse began operations in Poland, our goal has been to support efforts to maximize local content for the Polish project and to develop the workforce for this rapidly growing sector of the economy.
A key element of the third and final stage will be the practical verification of the quality systems developed through the production of prototype module components, so-called mock-ups, corresponding to the scope of expertise of each company. To this end, the companies will use the technical documentation, production procedures, and solutions developed in earlier stages. The manufactured components will undergo a quality inspection to assess the companies’ ability to conduct production in accordance with the requirements of ASME NQA-1. Successful completion of this stage will allow the companies to complete the qualification process and enhance their readiness to bid for contracts for the project in Choczewo and within the AP1000 global supply chain.
Currently, seven Polish companies are participating in the Westinghouse-led qualification process to meet the requirements of ASME NQA-1. Six of them have already completed the second stage. In April, another participant joined the process – ZBUD from Dąbrowa Tarnowska, a manufacturer of specialized lifting equipment, whose expertise can be applied, among other things, to the construction of the Polar Crane on the Nuclear Island. Expanding the group of companies prepared to work in the nuclear sector strengthens the supply chain for the project in Choczewo and supports the development of local content, increasing the participation of domestic entities in the execution of strategic investment projects.
The development of capabilities of Polish companies for the nuclear sector is part of broader efforts by the Investor, Polskie Elektrownie Jądrowe, to increase the participation of domestic companies in the delivery of the Pomeranian project. PEJ maintains ongoing cooperation with the market, publishes information about planned procurement procedures, organizes meetings for potential suppliers, and assists businesses in preparing to meet the requirements of the nuclear industry. These measures are aimed at building a strong and competitive domestic supply chain capable of carrying out the project at the Lubiatowo-Kopalino site and participating in future nuclear projects in Poland and abroad.