China National Nuclear Corp has signed two framework deals with Sudan to develop nuclear power, including building the country's first 600-megawatt atomic reactor.

The agreements were signed on May 23 during a three-day visit to Sudan by a Chinese delegation led by Nur Bekri, head of the National Energy Administration and deputy director of the National Development and Reform Commission.

Sun Qin, chairman of CNNC, says the company will work with Sudan's Ministry of Water Resources and Electricity. He did not disclose the contract value or the type of nuclear technology to be used for the reactor.

Chai Guohan, chief engineer at the Ministry of Environmental Protection's Nuclear and Radiation Safety Center, says it is likely the Chinese-designed Hualong 1, a third-generation reactor, will be chosen for the Sudan plant.

"China is looking to popularize this nuclear technology at home and abroad," he says.

With the world's largest number of reactors under construction, China plans to develop this experience into nuclear exports. Chinese nuclear companies are already making inroads in global nuclear markets, including Britain and Argentina.

CNNC has clinched deals with Argentina to build two nuclear reactors, while China General Nuclear Power Group has partnered with France's EDF to build three reactors in Britain.

Sudan has faced power shortages in recent years and is seeking to build two 600-mW pressurized water reactors to meet the growing demand for electricity, with construction on the first starting in 2021.

Finance Minister Badr-Eddin Mahmoud says the agreements with China reviewed all energy issues facing the country and predicts they will provide solutions for these and for new projects.

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