A memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by Westinghouse and Brazil's state-owned Nuclebrás Equipamentos Pesados (Nuclep) paves the way for the companies to collaborate on the fabrication of AP1000 reactor components in Brazil.

The MOU focuses on developing local technical capabilities, and flags Westinghouse's commitment to localization as the company looks to expand opportunities for the AP1000 in the region, reports World Nuclear News.

Brazil's two operating pressurized water reactor (PWR) nuclear power plants at Angra supply about 3% of the country's electricity. Angra 1 (626 MWe) was supplied by Westinghouse. Angra 2 (1270 MWe) was supplied by German vendor KWU, which is now Areva NP. Areva is completing a third Angra nuclear unit, which is scheduled to start up in 2016.

Brazilian operator Eletronuclear has proposed building another four units at two sites in Brazil. It reportedly is considering the Westinghouse AP1000, as well as the Areva-Mitsubishi Atmea-1 and Atomstroyexport's VVER-1000.

Westinghouse's current activities in Brazil include providing technical support to nuclear operator Eletronuclear, as well as a partnership with Industrías Nucleares do Brasil on fuel and manufacturing technologies.