Framatome will upgrade the “central nervous system” of Energy Northwest’s Columbia Generating Station as part of a deal announced Dec. 4.

The upgrades are part of Energy Northwest’s efforts to make sure the nuclear power plant continues to provide dependable power to the region, according to a Framatome release. 

Framatome, whose Richland facility produces fuel for many of the nation’s commercial nuclear reactors, said the deal reflects a growing partnership with the regional energy cooperative over a shared interest in a nuclear future.

The value of the contract was not disclosed.

“By integrating Framatome’s advanced digital controls, the Columbia Generating Station will be modernizing essential systems that help ensure long-term plant performance and deliver the clean, dependable power that communities across the Northwest rely on every day,” said Tony Robinson, CEO of Framatome in North America, in a statement.

France-based Framatome will specifically be working on the power plant’s instrumentation and control system. Using the commercial digital control Tricon platform, the upgrades will enable improved operator insight and situational awareness, while reducing life cycle maintenance costs and supporting the long-term operation of the plant.
 System development, manufacturing and assembly will take place at Framatome’s Centers for Operational Excellence in Mansfield, Massachusetts and Lynchburg, Virginia.