Candu Energy, a division of SNC-Lavalin, has signed a framework joint venture agreement in China that could lead to construction of nuclear power plants using recycled uranium. A spokesman for SNC Lavalin called the move a “game-changer” for the business.

The deal with China National Nuclear Corp. was signed in Beijing in concert with Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s state visit to China this past weekend.

The joint venture follows a memorandum of understanding signed between Natural Resources Canada and the China National Energy Administration to collaborate on civilian nuclear energy. It includes the development and export of advanced fuel reactors.

Each advanced fuel Candu reactor (AFCR) is designed to use the spent fuel from four light water reactors, creating a large potential market, the Candu spokesman said. AFCR technical details online at SNC Lavalin.

In-depth coverage online at Toronto Globe & Mail, and a detailed technical analysis at World Nuclear News.

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