IBM Establishes Global Center of Excellence for Nuclear Power

IBM today announced that it is establishing a Global Center of Excellence for Nuclear Power in La Gaude, France, to support safe, reliable and efficient electricity generation by energy companies worldwide.

The new Center extends IBM’s on-going work with leading nuclear power companies to support improved design, construction, safety and operation of power plants based on IBM software, hardware, consulting, and services industry offerings. These include IT systems design and architecture consulting, high performance computing, advanced simulation/modeling capabilities, plus Enterprise Asset Management and Plant Lifecycle Management solutions aimed at both the extension of existing nuclear power plant life, as well as streamlining new plant construction.
IBM has extensive experience in consulting and design of IT systems for the nuclear industry in France, where 80 per cent of energy is generated by nuclear power. The company strengthened its commitment and acumen in the nuclear power industry with two key acquisitions in October 2006: MRO Software and FileNet. Through establishment of the new Center of Excellence, IBM will extend access to this expertise to clients worldwide as energy companies develop roadmaps based on nuclear power generation.

“France possesses world-class expertise in the area of nuclear power,” said Frederic Bauchot, Lead Architect, IBM Center of Excellence for Nuclear Power. “Establishment of the Center enables IBM to utilize not only local IBM talent and experience in nuclear systems design and implementation, but also advanced skills of a leading nuclear power market.

“This initiative reinforces IBM’s globally integrated enterprise strategy — drawing on local specialist skills and knowledge to serve clients across the globe. This is very timely, as policy makers in Europe, Asia and the U.S. are examining ways to constrain carbon emissions while at the same time diversify their respective energy portfolios.”

CNN