In the first quarter of 2026, Westinghouse opened a brand new AP1000® Training Academy in Madrid, Spain, which will enhance nuclear operator training in Europe. Built on proven AP1000 simulator technology, the state-of-the-art center is already welcoming customers, prospective operators, media representatives and government officials from across the region.
Built Using Operational AP1000 Technology
The Madrid facility replicates the established AP1000 design used live today. Operator consoles, wall panels, human-system interfaces, plant dynamics and instrumentation and control logic are all represented with a high degree of realism, enabling an immersive training experience.
The facility leverages modern, open-system hardware and software architectures. Wherever possible, actual control system components and application software are reused, ensuring close alignment between training and real plant operations. This approach allows operators to train across a full range of scenarios – from normal operations, to startup, shutdown and transient conditions.
A Training Center for the European Fleet
Madrid was selected to better serve European utilities, regulators and stakeholders involved in current and future nuclear projects. Its accessibility makes it a natural hub for regional training, collaboration and engagement.
Since opening, the facility has hosted visitors from multiple European countries. Customers and prospects have experienced the simulator firsthand to better understand AP1000 operations and training, while government officials and regulators have observed how advanced simulation supports operator readiness and safety culture.
To learn more about the AP1000 Academy training programs, along with their course catalog, visit: AP1000® ACADEMY | SOUL News
Supporting Training and Operational Collaboration
The AP1000 Training Academy is designed to support more than initial operator training. Capabilities include:
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Training across all operating modes
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Simulating abnormal conditions and equipment failures
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Supporting crew evaluations
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Providing operational scenario walkthroughs
Strong Early Interest and Momentum
The steady flow of visitors highlights strong interest in the AP1000 program across Europe. Experiencing the simulator helps stakeholders connect plant design concepts with real operator actions and decision-making.
Early feedback points to the realism of the control room environment, the flexibility of simulator scenarios and the value of having a dedicated European AP1000 simulator center.
Looking Ahead
The new AP1000 Training Academy represents a meaningful investment in people, technology and regional partnerships. As interest in new nuclear development continues to grow across Europe, the center is well positioned to serve as a focal point for training, collaboration and education.
We look forward to welcoming new visitors and advancing the next generation of AP1000 projects across Europe.
Learn more about the Westinghouse AP1000:
AP1000® Pressurized Water Reactor | Westinghouse Nuclear
External News:
AP1000 training centre opened in Madrid ahead of European fleet - World Nuclear News
Westinghouse opens a new AP1000 training center in Madrid - Foro Nuclear
