GE Vernova Hitachi and Velan expand collaboration to support BWRX-300 small modular reactor deployment in Europe

PARIS (June 17, 2026) - GE Vernova Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GVH) and Canadian manufacturer Velan today announced a collaboration to explore opportunities for Velan to supply Reactor Integral Isolation Valves (RIIV) and Containment Isolation Valves (CIV) for GVH's BWRX-300 small modular nuclear reactor (SMR) projects in Europe. These valves are critical components that help control coolant flow, support safe reactor operation, and contribute to the long-term reliability and performance of the plant. The agreement was signed at GE Vernova's offices in Paris in the presence of The Honourable Stephen Lecce, Ontario's Minister of Energy and Mines.

The agreement builds on the expertise and capabilities being developed through the companies' work on the Darlington New Nuclear Project (DNNP) in Ontario, Canada, where Velan is supporting deployment of the first BWRX-300. As countries across Europe look to strengthen energy security, meet growing electricity demand, and advance decarbonization goals, GVH is pursuing SMR opportunities in multiple countries, including in Poland where GVH and Orlen Synthos Green Energy (OSGE) are executing site-specific engineering and development activities to support the deployment of at least 24 BWRX-300 units.

"One of the key advantages of fleet deployment is the ability to apply experience from early projects to those that follow," said Amir Mujezinovic, Strategy Leader, GE Vernova Hitachi Nuclear Energy. "Our work with Velan at Darlington has helped establish capabilities that can support future BWRX-300 opportunities in Europe. As we work with customers across the region, we remain committed to maximizing local participation while leveraging proven suppliers and expertise from projects already underway."

The BWRX-300 is a 300-megawatt SMR designed to provide reliable, carbon-free electricity. Ontario Power Generation (OPG) is currently deploying the technology at its Darlington site, making it the first commercial-scale SMR under construction in the western world.

"The valve package represents some of the most critical equipment within a nuclear power plant, essential to safe and reliable operation and requiring specialized engineering, manufacturing, and stringent quality standards," said Laurent Pefferkorn, Executive Vice-President, Global Sales, Velan. "Building on our experience supporting the Darlington New Nuclear Project backed by more than seven decades of nuclear expertise, Velan is uniquely positioned to support GE Vernova Hitachi as a partner of choice in enabling future BWRX-300 deployments in Europe."

The Province of Ontario has supported development of a globally competitive nuclear supply chain through investments in the Darlington New Nuclear Project and the broader nuclear sector.

"When Ontario committed to building the Western world's first Small Modular Reactor, we did so to secure a first-mover advantage for our workers, supply chain and industrial base," said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines. "By signing this agreement with GE Vernova Hitachi and Velan, Ontario will build and export Ontario-made nuclear components for Europe's growing SMR market. With more than $600 billion in global SMR investment expected in the decades ahead, our government is firing up the Ontario supply chain helping create good-paying jobs for Canadians."

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