French nuclear giant Areva had submitted a bid to SA to build nuclear power plants in the country , the group said yesterday. The bid followed Eskom’s invitation to negotiate, issued in November, Areva said.

“The South African call relates to two separate proposals. The first, known as ‘Nuclear-1’, is for the construction of a nuclear power plant of 3000MW-3500MW . The second, known as ‘Fleet’, deals with the preliminary elements relating to the potential construction of a 20000MW fleet by 2025 and for which a response is required later in 2008,” Areva said.

The company had proposed “a global partnership” to the government and Eskom, covering the construction of European pressurised reactors (EPRs ) and the joint development of a local nuclear industry.

“The first element of this partnership covers the construction of two EPRs within the scope of the Nuclear-1 programme and possibly 10 others within the scope of the Fleet programme,” Areva said.

To carry out the project, the company was heading a consortium bringing together local engineering and construction group Aveng, French construction group Bouygues and electricity group EDF.

“Should it opt for the EPRs, Eskom will be able to take full advantage of its advanced third generation technological features and the experience gained from projects under way in Finland and France.”

The second element related to the long-term development of SA’s nuclear industry.

Areva said it planned to invest with national players and offered its expertise in all aspects of the nuclear fuel cycle.

“This ambitious proposal is in keeping with the group’s desire to remain a long-standing partner of Eskom and SA in the nuclear field.”

Areva built the two nuclear reactors on the Koeberg site and holds a 51% stake in empowerment company Lesedi.