Energy Northwest executive board approved a contract Dec. 16 with Global Nuclear Fuel Americas, LLC in Wilmington, N.C. to extend fueling at Columbia through 2027.

GNF has fueled Columbia since 2009. The new fuel fabrication supply contract includes five reloads valued at more than $100 million.

“The new contract will provide for safe, reliable and high performance GNF2 fuel that will allow EN to achieve its power generation goals,” said Scott Praetorius, program manager nuclear fuels procurement. 

Last year Columbia began using the GNF2, a fuel assembly designed to deliver increased energy output while decreasing overall fuel cycle costs.

“The new contract is estimated to provide $3.3 million in savings over the life of the contract compared to the current contract,” said Praetorius. “The new contract also secured long-term fabrication services through 2027 at a predictable price and provides for two optional reloads.”