AECL contract in Romania further proof that international demand for nuclear
is growing

Affirms CANDU technology's place in the nuclear renaissance

PICKERING, ON, Feb. 8 /CNW/ - Atomic Energy of Canada Limited's (AECL) contract with SC EnergoNuclear S.A. to assess the viability and planning of two units at the Cernavoda Nuclear Power Plant is a positive step towards new business opportunities for Canada's nuclear industry. The member companies of The Organization of CANDU Industries (OCI) are eager to participate and contribute to a successful project.

"Moving forward on the Cernavoda project is another indication of the increasing demand for nuclear power as a clean, reliable source of base load electricity and further proof that CANDU technology has a vital role to play as the world-wide nuclear renaissance takes hold," says OCI President Dr . Neil Alexander . "With hundreds of reactors in the planning stages around the world, demand for Canada's skilled manufacturers of high quality parts and components for nuclear reactors stands to increase substantially. It's time for a supportive decision here at home for CANDU technology so we can move ahead and demonstrate this capability to the world, and become the most sought after suppliers for the world's power reactors."

The nuclear industry is on the verge of a dramatic expansion around the world with Canada as one of an elite few countries to market an advanced Generation III+ nuclear reactor design. Current estimates indicate upwards of 100 reactors to be built or in the process of being built by 2020, and that even more will be required for jurisdictions around the world to meet their greenhouse gas emission reduction targets.

" Canada has a fully mobilized and efficient supply chain that has grown and thrived over the past 30 years of continuous work supporting the construction of CANDU reactors around the world," says Dr. Alexander . "OCI's member companies have earned an impeccable reputation for delivering parts and services consistently on-time and on-budget, and are poised and ready to meet increased demand."

About OCI

The Organization of CANDU Industries (OCI) represents more than 160 Canadian companies supplying goods & services for CANDU reactors in domestic & export markets. OCI companies provide engineering services & manufactured components for the CANDU industry and although it functions separately from design authorities & utilities, OCI members participate in design, manufacture, construction & commissioning of CANDU plants here at home and abroad.

For further information: Josh Turner, [email protected], [phone] ext. 232