In the midst of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s military actions at Ukraine’s largest nuclear facility and assaults on the country’s power grid, Europe and the United States continue to rely on Russian nuclear fuel for their electricity needs. Data analyzed by CBC’s investigative program, “the fifth estate,” reveals that Canadian-owned Westinghouse Electric is a recipient of low enriched uranium (LEU) from Russia for fueling commercial nuclear reactors in the U.S.
Despite the U.S. banning the import of Russian enriched uranium in August 2024 to reduce dependency and ensure a robust domestic fuel supply, the Prohibiting Russian Uranium Imports Act allows waivers if no viable alternative source is available or if it serves national interests. These waivers are set to expire by January 1, 2028.
A report by the Bellona Environmental Transparency Center in Lithuania disclosed that the U.S. imported 400 tonnes of low enriched uranium from Russia in 2025, valued at approximately $1 billion US. Major recipients included subsidiaries of Framatome, Global Nuclear Fuel Americas, and Westinghouse.
While the European Union has no restrictions on Russian enriched uranium imports, Canada has not sanctioned dealings with Rosatom or Tenex, Russia’s state atomic energy entities. Calls have been made to reduce reliance on Russian nuclear supplies amidst the ongoing conflict.
Notably, Westinghouse’s South Carolina facility receives shipments of enriched uranium from Russia for processing into fuel pellets used in commercial nuclear power reactors. The company, majority-owned by Brookfield Renewable Partners and Cameco Corporation, is a key player in the U.S. nuclear industry.
Efforts are being made to curb the long-standing dependence on Russian enriched uranium by enhancing domestic production and exploring alternative sources. The U.S. and Europe account for a significant portion of global uranium consumption, with Russia being a major supplier. Plans to diversify sources while maintaining stability in the supply chain are underway.
Westinghouse’s involvement in nuclear initiatives, including potential collaborations with Saudi Arabia and Canada’s nuclear industry developments, underscores the evolving landscape of nuclear energy. However, the need for enriched uranium for proposed new reactors in Canada highlights the necessity for strategic planning to ensure a reliable supply chain.
As discussions continue on reducing reliance on Russian nuclear supplies, the importance of supporting Ukraine’s energy independence and diversification efforts remains a focal point for industry stakeholders. Agreements between companies like Cameco and Energoatom signify steps towards bolstering Ukraine’s nuclear sector and reducing dependence on Russian fuel sources.