Canadian engineering and nuclear technology company AtkinsRéalis is moving closer to securing a significant role in Turkey’s expanding nuclear energy programme. The latest development comes as both countries strengthen cooperation on electricity generation, advanced reactor technology and long-term energy security.

The company has signed an agreement with Turkish state-owned nuclear energy company TUNAS to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study for a potential new nuclear power plant. The development represents an important step in Canada’s efforts to expand its nuclear technology business internationally.

The proposed project could involve six reactors with a combined generating capacity of approximately 4.5 gigawatts, creating a major opportunity for Canadian nuclear engineering.

Canada and Turkey Strengthen Nuclear Cooperation

The agreement was signed by Candu Energy, an AtkinsRéalis subsidiary, during the COP31 climate summit in Antalya, Turkey.

The arrangement expands cooperation between the two countries following an earlier memorandum of understanding signed in March 2026.

The feasibility study will examine the technical, financial and regulatory requirements associated with deploying Canadian CANDU reactor technology in Turkey.

The work is expected to include front-end engineering and design activities, helping Turkish authorities assess the project’s suitability before making a final investment decision.

According to the latest project timeline, the comprehensive study is expected to be completed by the end of 2027, while engineering design work is targeted for completion in 2028.

Six-Reactor Project Could Transform Turkey’s Energy Capacity

One of the most important aspects of the discussions is the potential development of a six-unit nuclear facility with approximately 4.5 gigawatts of generating capacity.

Such a project would represent a significant addition to Turkey’s electricity infrastructure.

The country is seeking to diversify its energy sources and reduce its dependence on imported fossil fuels. Nuclear energy is expected to play an increasingly important role in meeting long-term electricity demand.

Turkey is also evaluating potential locations for future nuclear developments, including Sinop on the Black Sea coast and the Thrace region in the northwest.

The government has been exploring several international partnerships as it works towards expanding domestic nuclear generation.

CANDU Technology Gives Canada a Competitive Opportunity

AtkinsRéalis is promoting its Canadian-developed CANDU reactor technology as a potential solution for Turkey’s future nuclear power requirements.

CANDU reactors use heavy water as a moderator and coolant and can operate using natural uranium fuel.

This technology offers countries an alternative to reactor systems that depend on enriched uranium.

For Turkey, the technology could provide opportunities to develop domestic nuclear expertise, strengthen supply-chain capabilities and increase energy independence.

AtkinsRéalis also sees the project as an opportunity to expand its international nuclear engineering business and establish longer-term relationships with Turkish industrial partners.

Financing and Investment Discussions Gain Importance

Beyond the technical assessment, Canada and Turkey are also working on a financing roadmap for the potential development.

Large nuclear power projects require substantial upfront investment, long construction schedules and carefully structured financial arrangements.

The proposed cooperation will therefore need to address project ownership, financing options, construction responsibilities and the participation of local suppliers.

A final investment decision will depend on the results of the feasibility work and negotiations between the relevant parties.

Although the latest agreement represents progress, it should not be interpreted as a completed construction contract or a final decision to build the proposed facility.

Global Competition for Turkey’s Nuclear Market

Turkey’s nuclear ambitions have attracted interest from several international technology providers.

South Korea, Russia, Japan and China are among the countries involved in discussions surrounding future nuclear power developments.

Russia’s Rosatom is already constructing Turkey’s first nuclear power station at Akkuyu, a four-reactor facility with an expected capacity of approximately 4.8 gigawatts.

However, the project has experienced delays, encouraging Turkey to explore additional international partnerships for its future nuclear infrastructure.

AtkinsRéalis will therefore need to compete on technology, financing, project delivery and local industrial participation.

Long-Term Energy Ambitions Drive the Partnership

Turkey aims to develop approximately 10 gigawatts of nuclear generating capacity by 2040.

Nuclear energy is expected to become an important component of the country’s electricity mix as demand increases and policymakers seek more diversified sources of power.

For Canada, the partnership offers an opportunity to export engineering expertise, nuclear technology and industrial services to an expanding international market.

The agreement also strengthens economic cooperation between the two countries at a time when energy security and reliable electricity supplies are receiving increased attention worldwide.

Outlook: A Major Opportunity for AtkinsRéalis

The latest agreement marks an important stage in AtkinsRéalis’ efforts to expand its global nuclear business.

If the proposed project progresses beyond the feasibility and design stages, it could create significant opportunities for the company and Canadian nuclear suppliers.

For Turkey, cooperation with Canada could support its efforts to diversify nuclear technology partnerships and build a stronger domestic energy industry.

However, the project’s ultimate success will depend on technical assessments, financing arrangements, regulatory approvals and negotiations over construction.

The coming years will be important in determining whether the proposed six-reactor development becomes a major part of Turkey’s long-term energy strategy.