Slovenské elektrárne and Urenco signed a contract for the supply of enriched uranium

28.07.2025
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Slovenské elektrárne, a.s. has reached a significant milestone in diversifying nuclear fuel suppliers in the enrichment phase, thereby enhancing Slovakia’s energy security amid growing geopolitical challenges.

Slovenské elektrárne, a.s., the largest electricity producer in Slovakia, signed a long-term contract on Friday, 25 July 2025, with Urenco Group, an international leader in uranium enrichment, in the presence of British Ambassador Nigel Baker. The agreement secures supplies of enriched uranium for the nuclear power plants at Bohunice and Mochovce until the mid-2030s. This partnership demonstrates our long-term commitment to diversifying nuclear fuel suppliers and strengthening Slovakia’s energy security.

 “We are pleased that through future cooperation with Urenco Group, we can diversify our business relationships. It will significantly help us continue maintaining the stable and secure operation of our nuclear power plants.”

Branislav Strýček, Chairman of the Board of Directors and CEO of Slovenské elektrárne

This contract results from an international tender launched in early 2024. Amid geopolitical uncertainties and disrupted supply-demand balance in the nuclear materials market, securing stable and reliable supplies is crucial for the safe and uninterrupted operation of Slovak nuclear power plants.

“In today’s world, diversity of energy supply is a critical factor in national security. This long-term agreement between Urenco and SE helps Slovakia achieve that goal, ensuring a reliable alternative supply of enriched uranium to fuel Slovakia’s growing nuclear industry for years to come. I am delighted to see this close partnership between Urenco and SE, which also strengthens the bonds between Slovakia and the United Kingdom.”

Nigel Baker, British ambassador in Slovakia  

Why is uranium enrichment so important?

The process of nuclear fuel production consists of four stages:

  • uranium mining
  • conversion
  • enrichment
  • fabrication of fuel assemblies

Uranium enrichment is technologically and financially the most demanding phase, with global capacities concentrated among just a few players. Therefore, access to reliable and diversified enrichment services is a strategic priority for every nuclear power plant operator.

“We are very proud at Urenco Group to be entering into a new market with a new customer, and I’d like to pay tribute to Slovenské elektrárne for placing their trust in us.”

Laurent Odeh, Chief Commercial Officer of Urenco

Significance for Slovakia

Slovenské elektrárne generates more than 87% of its electricity from nuclear power, positioning it among Europe’s climate leaders. Following the closure of the last coal-fired power plant in 2024, the Company’s entire production is free of direct CO₂ emissions. The contract with Urenco thus directly contributes not only to strengthening Slovakia’s energy security but also to achieving climate neutrality goals and maintaining reliable and stable electricity supply for households and industry in Slovakia.

About the company

With a share exceeding 70% of total electricity production in Slovakia, Slovenské elektrárne, a.s. is the country’s largest electricity producer. Since shutting down its last coal-fired power plant at the end of Q1 2024, all electricity generated by the company is free of direct CO₂ emissions. It operates 5 nuclear reactors, 31 hydropower plants, and 2 photovoltaic plants.

The company’s commitment to producing electricity from low-carbon sources makes it a leader in sustainable energy production in Central and Eastern Europe. The company has been listed four times in the prestigious Europe’s Climate Leaders index, published since 2021 by The Financial Times and Statista.

Who are the shareholders

Slovenské elektrárne, a.s. has two shareholders. Slovak Power Holding B.V. is the majority shareholder with 66%. (SPH), which is owned by the Czech energy group Energetický a průmyslový holding (EPH). The other shareholder is the Slovak Republic, holding a 34% stake in the company.

About Urenco Group

Urenco is an international supplier of uranium enrichment services, fuel cycle products, and related solutions, with sustainability at the core of its business. For more than 50 years, Urenco has operated in a key segment of the nuclear fuel supply chain, understands the importance of energy security, and facilitates reliable supplies of low-carbon electricity production for customers worldwide.

Headquartered in London, United Kingdom, Urenco ensures diversity and security of supply for its customers globally through uranium enrichment facilities located in Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the USA.

Urenco positively contributes to global climate change goals through its core operations and has committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.

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