Makoto Kanda (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries), President of the Sinop Nuclear Energy Company, assessed the recent developments in the Sinop Nuclear Power Plant (NPP).
Mr. Kanda said that the feasibility studies were completed last year and the results of the seismic evaluation were transmitted to the senior seismic hazard committee (SSHAC).
The SSHAC includes independent Turkish, Japanese and European experts and uses other studies, such as the past seismic studies of TÜBİTAK Marmara Research Center and Turkish Petroleum Corporation.
According to the latest workshop report to be held in September 2017, the expert committee will confirm the feasibility of the site by the end of the year.
Mr.Kanda emphasized the work is in conformity with the standards and references of the International Atomic Energy Agency (UAEA).
He pointed out that the nuclear power plant are long-term projects and continued : “Investors for the Sinop NPP project are waiting for a clear support from the Turkish government. Our goal is to complete the field suitability report and to concentrate on commercial feasibility (…) In this order, all feasibility studies, including commercial feasibility studies are expected to be completed by March 2018 and to clarify the process. ”
The first reactor of the Sinop NPP is planned to be commissioned in 2023. The plant’s construction date is expected to be finalized within a few months after feasibility results.
