Czech utility CEZ is considering delaying the tender for construction of a new nuclear power plant at Temelin, due to feedback from the participants in the competition.

In February, CEZ revealed that three reactor suppliers – Areva, Westinghouse and Atomstroyexport – had met the qualification criteria and could continue to participate in the tender process. As part of the next stage state-controlled CEZ was due to submit detailed technical documents to these bidders. Recent press reports suggest that it will not do so until 2011, a year later than planned.

A spokesperson for CEZ, Eva Nováková, told Nuclear Engineering International that contrary to press reports the utility has not yet made a decision to delay the competition process. But alterations to the timetable are being considered internally as participants in the competition have indicated that the schedule very tight and have asked for more time to prepare documentation.

The schedule is being given high priority now to avoid later delays that could impact construction and costs, CEZ said.

Also, CEZ is trying to prevent the withdrawal of one or more of the bidders, which could affect its position in negotiations and lead to higher costs.

Nováková said that any changes would need to be approved by the CEZ Supervisory Board. More detail is expected in November.