The Feasibility and Implications of Floating Nuclear Power Units for Guinea: An Analysis

In June, 2024 on the side of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Rosatom, Russia’s state nuclear corporation, signed an agreement with Guinea to explore the implementation of floating nuclear power units (FNPUs) as a solution to the country’s energy challenges. The project, which centers around deploying RITM-200 reactors—currently used in Russia’s nuclear-powered icebreakers—signals a new era of energy solutions for Africa, particularly in regions where access to reliable power is a critical challenge. However, while the project promises to address pressing energy demands in Guinea and other parts of the African continent, several implications and feasibility considerations must be examined.

The Promise of Floating Nuclear Power Units (FNPUs)

Rosatom’s floating nuclear power units are designed to provide compact, reliable, and environmentally friendly energy. The RITM-200 reactors that power these units have already proven efficient in the demanding conditions of the Arctic region, providing both electricity and heat to coastal areas. With a generation capacity of 70 MW, the Akademik Lomonosov, the first floating nuclear plant launched in 2020, serves as a prototype for larger FNPUs with the potential to generate up to 106 MW of electricity per unit.

In Guinea’s case, the deployment of such units could be transformative. The country has faced long-standing energy shortages that have hampered economic growth and industrialization. The floating nature of these plants is especially beneficial for Guinea, a country with limited infrastructure and widespread access issues, as it allows for electricity generation without the need for large-scale land-based power plants, which can be costly and time-consuming to construct.

Potential Advantages of the FNPUs for Guinea and Africa

1. Fast Deployment: Unlike traditional nuclear plants, which require years of planning, permits, and construction, FNPUs can be deployed quickly. They can be moored off the coast or near industrial areas, making them ideal for regions like Guinea that need immediate and reliable power sources. This speed of deployment aligns well with Guinea’s urgent need to boost its energy capacity.
2. Environmental Considerations: The floating plants use proven RITM-200 reactors, which are designed to be efficient and environmentally friendly. Given the rising concern over carbon emissions and the need for cleaner energy, nuclear power provides a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuel-based electricity generation, aligning with global sustainability goals.
3. Reliability and Stability: The FNPUs are capable of providing a continuous and stable power supply, even in regions with limited energy infrastructure. This could be especially beneficial in Guinea, where power outages are common, and existing grid systems often fail to meet demand.
4. Scalability and Flexibility: The ability to deploy multiple FNPUs, each with capacities of up to 106 MW, allows for scalable energy solutions tailored to Guinea’s needs. Moreover, the design of these units makes them adaptable to a range of climates, suggesting potential for use in various African countries with similar energy challenges.
5. Long-Term Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs): Rosatom’s business model, which focuses on selling electricity rather than the physical units, ensures a sustainable revenue stream for the company. The 60-year PPAs tied to these floating power units provide Guinea with a long-term solution to its energy problems while allowing Rosatom to secure a reliable market for its technology.

Feasibility Challenges and Considerations

1. Cost and Financing: While the floating nuclear units offer several benefits, the initial investment required for the infrastructure, installation, and operation could be significant. Although Rosatom’s approach avoids the upfront cost of purchasing the units, the long-term power purchase agreements and the cost of electricity will be a critical factor in the economic feasibility of the project. Guinea will need to secure financing arrangements or international support to make the project viable.
2. Regulatory and Safety Concerns: Operating nuclear reactors in an African context presents regulatory challenges. Guinea and other African nations would need to establish robust nuclear regulatory frameworks and ensure proper safety measures are in place. The safety of nuclear facilities, particularly in a maritime setting, raises concerns about potential accidents, environmental impact, and local community support. These challenges must be addressed through transparent and rigorous oversight.
3. Local Capacity and Workforce Development: Operating and maintaining floating nuclear power units requires highly specialized personnel, and the local workforce may need extensive training. While Rosatom could provide technical expertise, Guinea must invest in human capital to ensure the long-term sustainability of the nuclear power plant.
4. Environmental Impact and Coastal Issues: While nuclear power is considered environmentally friendly compared to fossil fuels, the impact of operating floating nuclear units in coastal areas—especially on marine ecosystems—must be carefully considered. The risk of contamination from radioactive materials or other environmental hazards could pose a threat to the local environment and fisheries.
5. Political and Social Implications: As with any large-scale infrastructure project, especially one involving nuclear energy, the project may face political and social resistance. Local communities and environmental groups could raise concerns about the safety and environmental impact of nuclear power. Additionally, the geopolitical implications of collaborating with Russia could affect Guinea’s relationships with other international partners.

Conclusion: A Strategic Step Toward Energy Security

The agreement between Rosatom and Guinea to explore the deployment of floating nuclear power units represents a bold step toward addressing Africa’s energy security challenges. The potential benefits of these units—fast deployment, reliability, environmental friendliness, and scalability—make them a compelling option for Guinea and other countries with similar energy needs. However, the feasibility of the project will depend on overcoming financial, regulatory, environmental, and social hurdles.

In the long term, if successfully implemented, this project could serve as a model for other African nations looking to secure a stable, sustainable, and low-carbon energy future. Rosatom’s growing role in Africa’s nuclear energy sector, coupled with its experience in providing advanced, flexible power solutions, could help transform the continent’s energy landscape, ensuring that countries like Guinea can meet their development goals while minimizing their carbon footprints.

Authored by: Raymond Agalga. The Author is a seasoned research scientist with over 10 years of experience in nuclear safety, security, and radiation protection. He currently works at the Nuclear Safety and Security Centre of the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC). Raymond has contributed significantly to various IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) programs, including consultancy, technical meetings, and training missions. He is an expert in nuclear safety, radiation protection, and non-proliferation and currently a PhD Candidate in Environmental Physics from KNUST, specializing in hydrochemical and radiological assessments of water sources. Raymond is also a Certified Nuclear Security Professional and an active member of professional organizations like the Ghana Nuclear Society and the Ghana Association for Radiation Protection.