Full Breakdown
Canada Promotes Nuclear Technology in Poland
2/17/2026, 8:15:16 PM
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson is currently in Poland to advocate for Canadian nuclear technology, specifically promoting Candu Energy Inc. This visit is part of a broader strategy to enhance Canada’s energy partnerships in Europe amid geopolitical instability and a renewed focus on energy security. Poland is pursuing a significant nuclear buildout to reduce its reliance on coal and Russian natural gas, aligning its energy transition goals with Canada’s expertise in nuclear power.
In January 2025, Canada and Poland signed a Nuclear Co-operation Agreement aimed at fostering partnerships between companies and exploring opportunities for small modular reactors (SMRs). This agreement is a key component of a strategic partnership established in August 2024, which emphasizes collaboration on nuclear energy.
Canadian Companies Competing for Contracts
Multiple Canadian nuclear firms are vying for contracts in Poland, with Hodgson primarily advocating for Candu Energy, a subsidiary of Montreal-based AtkinsRéalis Group Inc. Candu Energy is part of a consortium that secured a contract in 2024 to construct two nuclear reactors in Romania, marking the first new Candu reactors built since 2007. This project was supported by $3 billion in Canadian export financing from the federal government, administered by Export Development Canada.
Hodgson noted that Polish officials recently visited the existing Candu nuclear plant in Romania and expressed strong interest in the technology. He emphasized the importance of promoting Canadian-owned technology, stating that while Westinghouse Electric Co., a competitor now under Canadian ownership, has also targeted Poland, its technology and intellectual property remain American-controlled.
Advantages of Candu Technology
Candu technology presents several advantages for Poland, including its approval status in Europe and a track record of completing projects ahead of schedule and under budget. Additionally, Candu reactors utilize unenriched uranium, which enhances national security by reducing dependence on foreign fuel sources.
Hodgson expressed optimism about Candu's prospects in Poland, although he acknowledged the unpredictability of the bidding process. He stated, “I learned a long time ago that you don’t count your chickens before they’re hatched. You go out and play the game the best you can and may the best person win. But we feel pretty good about it.”
Criticism and Competition
While Hodgson is optimistic about Candu's chances, there is notable competition from Westinghouse, which has received a letter of interest for up to $2.02 billion in financing from Export Development Canada for its own nuclear project in Poland. Despite the Canadian ownership of Westinghouse, Hodgson pointed out that the management and supply chain are based in the United States, which could limit the benefits to Canada compared to a Candu win.
Conclusion
As Canada seeks to expand its influence in the global nuclear market, the outcome of Hodgson's efforts in Poland will be closely watched. The emphasis on Canadian technology and expertise reflects a strategic move to strengthen energy partnerships while addressing the growing demand for reliable and secure energy sources in Europe.
