Framatome and SN Nuclearelectrica SA (SNN) have signed an agreement on the development of the Medical Radioisotopes Project, initiated in 2024, as part of Nuclearelectrica's long-term strategy to capitalize on the additional advantages of nuclear energy production and provide the medical industry with much needed medical radioisotopes. The IRIS (Innovative Romanian Isotope System) Project has now entered effective implementation with a view to launching commercial service in 2028.
The agreement establishes the framework under which Framatome and SNN will collaborate to implement the production of Lutetium-177 medical radioisotopes at the Cernavoda nuclear power plant, operate the equipment and infrastructure resulting from the implementation of this project and, in the future, develop other projects related to the production of medical radioisotopes.
“This agreement underscores Framatome and Nuclearelectrica's commitment to strengthening the supply chain for lifesaving radioisotopes in Europe and across the globe,” said Grégoire Ponchon, CEO of Framatome. “Framatome is proud to leverage its expertise in the fight against cancer and help facilitate mass access to nuclear medicine.”
“2025 is significant in terms of project development and advancement at Nuclearelectrica…. We are pleased to collaborate with Framatome to supply radioisotopes for the medical community, and, at the same time, added value for our shareholders. We are here to prove the full beneficial range of the Romanian nuclear industry,” said Cosmin Ghita, Chief Executive Officer Nuclearelectrica.
More than 10,000 medical care units worldwide, totaling approximately 49 million radioisotopes procedures/year and more than 1,500 medical care units in EU, with 10 million procedures/year provide a clear dimension of need and role of the radioisotopes. Lutetium-177 is an essential isotope in the treatment of cancer.
