Canada Bids for Poland's Second Nuclear Plant with CANDU Technology
Ottawa has formalized a proposal to supply Poland's second nuclear plant with heavy-water reactors, challenging Westinghouse's AP1000 standard and aiming to secure a major energy contract ahead of a 2027 decision.
Canada has formally proposed building Poland’s second nuclear power plant using CANDU technology, a move that introduces a heavy-water, natural-uranium alternative to the light-water reactors currently favored in the region. Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu described discussions in Warsaw as very positive, signaling a competitive bid against established players like the United States and France. The proposal was outlined during a February 2026 visit, where Ottawa emphasized the supply chain advantages of its reactor design.
The core of the Canadian offer relies on the pressurized heavy-water reactor (PHWR), which operates on unenriched natural uranium. This technical specification eliminates the need for fuel enrichment, thereby reducing dependence on foreign enrichment facilities. While Poland’s first plant will utilize Westinghouse AP1000 units, the CANDU design offers a distinct operational model with a proven export track record in Argentina, South Korea, China, and Pakistan, typically delivering around 600 MWe per unit.
Comprehensive Energy Supply Package
Beyond the reactor itself, Canada is positioning its broader energy infrastructure as a competitive advantage. The proposal includes a commitment to supply natural uranium, leveraging production from the Athabasca Basin in Saskatchewan to ensure long-term fuel security. Sidhu also highlighted ongoing explorations for project financing arrangements, aiming to offer a complete financial and material package to Polish decision-makers.
The deal extends into the gas sector, with Canada proposing the supply of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Baltic Sea terminals via swap agreements. This diversification strategy seeks to integrate nuclear generation with reliable gas backup, addressing Poland’s winter energy vulnerabilities. By bundling these assets, Ottawa aims to present itself as a stable, multi-faceted partner rather than a single-technology vendor.
Competitive Landscape and Timeline
Poland plans to select the technology and financial partner for its second plant in 2027, with the site location to be confirmed in 2028. Deputy Energy Minister Wojciech Wrochna confirmed that the country is evaluating bids from Canada, the United States, France, and South Korea. The competition is intense, with Washington seeking to maintain its foothold in a key NATO ally that already purchases significant U.S. military equipment.
The first nuclear plant, featuring three AP1000 reactors in Lubiatowo-Kopalino, is scheduled to begin construction in 2028. The first unit is expected to connect to the grid in 2036, followed by the remaining units between 2037 and 2038. The long-term goal is to achieve a total nuclear capacity of 6 to 9 GW, a scale that would fundamentally alter Central Europe’s energy balance and reduce reliance on imported gas.
Trade Strategy Amid Disputes
This nuclear push coincides with Ottawa’s broader effort to diversify trade away from the United States amid ongoing tariff disputes. Sidhu led a record delegation of over 200 Canadian companies to Poland, underscoring the strategic importance of the European market. The move represents a calculated risk to secure high-value infrastructure contracts in a region where energy security is a paramount political priority.
