Turkey's Nuclear Power Plant Construction Delayed Due to Absence of German Components
Russia's state corporation Rosatom is experiencing delays in completing Turkey's first nuclear power plant due to missing components from Siemens Energy. As per official communiqués, Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar mentioned exploring options with Chinese companies due to the delay in deliveries from Siemens Energy. This setback might extend the initial operation of the first reactor by a few months.
"Alternatives are available," Bayraktar affirmed. He further stated that Rosatom had already ordered substitute parts from Chinese suppliers, with shipment expected from China. Turkey is considering imposing penalties on Siemens Energy despite a lengthy partnership with the German corporation. "This tactic may influence their participation in future endeavors," Bayraktar noted.
A spokesperson from Siemens Energy admitted that certain parts had been shipped earlier, but not within the past year because the necessary export/customs permits were still pending. "Obviously, we are compelled to adhere to export regulations," the representative clarified. The Turkish administration suspects a potential link between the delayed shipments and Western sanctions targeted against Russia due to the Ukraine conflict, added Bayraktar.
"Recalled Chancellor Olaf Scholz"
Rosatom, the Russian government-backed nuclear energy firm, is responsible for the construction of the Akkuyu nuclear power plant within the Turkish Mediterranean province of Mersin, under a pact with Ankara. Initially, Turkey aimed to operate its first reactor by 2023. For the first time in history, nuclear fuel rods were inserted into the reactor compartment at the site last year.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan mentioned in July that Germany was hindering the export of essential parts required for the Akkuyu plant. "This has raised our concerns substantially. I addressed this issue with the German Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz during our bilateral meeting," Erdogan told reporters upon returning from the NATO summit in Washington.
Despite the ongoing issues with Siemens Energy, Turkey is exploring alternative energy supply sources to ensure the timely completion of the nuclear power plant. The recalled Chancellor Olaf Scholz's stance on exporting essential parts for the Akkuyu plant has prompted Turkey to consider shifting its focus towards Chinese suppliers.
