L&T, France’s Areva ink pact for cooperation on nuclear plant

Larsen & Toubro (L&T) and France-based Areva have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for cooperation to maximise localisation for the EPR nuclear power plant to be built at Jaitapur, Maharashtra.

Areva's EPR nuclear reactor is a third-generation advanced pressurised water reactor.

''The MoU with Areva represents a major step forward for L&T in the field of pressurised water reactor technology. This is a significant addition to L&T's existing capabilities and the lead role it has played in equipment manufacture, construction and project management for pressurized heavy water reactors in India's domestic nuclear power programme,'' L&T said in a release.

''The MoU covers the prospect of partnership between L&T and Areva in manufacturing key nuclear island equipment, valves, piping, electrical, instrumentation and engineering work,'' the release added .

Under the partnership agreement, Areva will transfer technology to utilise the forging capabilities of L&T Special Steels & Heavy Forgings (a joint venture with Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited). The partnership will support the Indian Government's 'Make in India' initiative and enhance the competitiveness of the Jaitapur project, the release added.

Speaking on the occasion, M V Kotwal, whole-time director and president – Heavy Engineering, said: ''This partnership will add new dimensions to the capabilities of India's manufacturing sector in the nuclear business''.