|
Greetings Patrick!
In this week’s issue, we highlight a recent National Interest article written by PGS President Ken Luongo that argues the Trump administration needs to prioritize deploying nuclear power to compete globally and counter Russia and China. We spotlight the recent pledge by multiple tech companies to triple global nuclear capacity by 2050 at the CERAWeek 2025 conference, as well as the role nuclear energy will play in powering data centers and artificial intelligence. Finally, we highlight key nuclear technology, security, and geopolitical developments, reports, and analyses.
This issue of Nuclear News and Views was produced by PGS Program Director, Patrick Kendall, and Della Ratta Energy and Global Security Fellows, Emily Day and Jocelyn Livier.
| | Deploying Nuclear Power, the Donald's Way | | |
A longer version of this article was published by the Center for the National Interest and it can be found here.
Donald Trump made his fortune by driving construction pilings in the ground, not pondering the physics of how that happens. This focus on building things needs to be applied to U.S. nuclear energy deployment if the administration’s desire to Unleash Commercial Nuclear Power is going to become a reality at home and abroad.
Any real effort to shake the government’s focus from R&D to deployment will require smashing some crockery in U.S. nuclear energy bureaucracy and, by extension, sending tremors through the American nuclear industry and laboratory ecosystem.
The Silicon Valley technology ethos that seems to be pervading the new Trump administration could be helpful in this process because radically remaking companies and institutions are SV traits. But it needs to be strategic, not the slash and burn tactics that have been used in culling other parts of the government.
Developing a Deployment Strategy
There are a myriad of impediments that could impair America’s nuclear expansion that require creative solutions. A private-public integrated deployment strategy is needed to fit the puzzle pieces together, create a clear picture, and establish metrics and objectives.
A letter to the Energy Secretary, Chris Wright, from the American Nuclear Society, asked, “Will operating prototypes be enough to kickstart a full on commercial build-out? Nobody knows for sure.” But after six years and billions of dollars of American government investment to elevate nuclear energy, the answer to this question should be much more definitive.
There also are global and security stakes. The U.S. must compete much more effectively with Russia and China across multiple reactor platforms and fuel cycles to be relevant to the future global nuclear market and establish secure deployment ground rules. According to ANS, “China is running circles around us in new builds [and] Russia has the best ‘zero money down’ offer on a nuclear reactor in the world.” Both are better positioned in the developing economy world to export their reactors.
Some of the stars have begun to align in America’s quest for this goal. The U.S. has been successful in selling large Westinghouse AP-1000 reactors to Poland and Bulgaria. And the U.S. and its allies have aggressively recommitted to the nuclear fuel supply business. The AI boom is driving technology companies to embrace nuclear energy as a scalable, continuous source of clean energy for their power-hungry data centers.
But deployment uncertainty is going to have to clarify quickly if there is any chance of achieving the American commitment to deploy 200 GW of new nuclear capacity by 2050, with an interim target of 35 GW of new capacity by 2035.
A Temporary Department of Nuclear Deployment
With no new reactors currently under consideration for deployment in the U.S., something needs to jump-start the system.
One approach to overcoming the inertia is to work with Congress to temporarily authorize a “Department of Nuclear Deployment (DND).” This can draw in special governmental employees knowledgeable in finance, technology down-selection, large-scale construction, and other areas where the government is traditionally weak, and they can be teamed with the best from the traditional government agencies and labs.
It can be housed and funded by DoE and directed by dedicated senior officials in the White House. The goal should be to get beyond the nuclear research business and into the deployment business to put new electrons on the grid by 2035.
There are three essential strategic objectives for the DND.
1. Provide Assured Financing. The financial commitment to nuclear power’s expansion is weak because private finance is not going to strongly come on board without support and risk reduction assurances from the U.S. government. Some of what is necessary is already in place and should be preserved. But more government financing is going to be necessary for domestic deployment and exports.
2. Capture New Export Markets. The financing will not work unless there are markets that are identified, cultivated, and synched. The U.S. is doing OK in making reactor deals with EU countries. But the overseas markets for small reactors are mostly outside of the OECD in developing-economy countries with small, disaggregated grids and little in-depth nuclear knowledge. Aside from financing, Russia provides operators for reactors it exports if necessary. China will follow suit. The U.S. and its allies need to respond to this advantage. One approach is a new Build, Operate, Transfer strategy that provides operational support for a specified period then transfers the reactor to the hoist country.
3. Build Supply Chain and Coalition Cooperation. The reality is that the U.S. needs to pursue a two-pronged approach to the nuclear power supply chain. One is to build more capacity at home. That will take time and a reactor order book, which is missing at the moment. The other is to better align with allies. A strong coalition will include the U.S., U.K, Canada, France, Japan and South Korea. Managing cooperation, coordination, and competition to contend with Russia and China should be the subject of a nuclear energy summit of the six nations. This should appeal to the president’s interest in technology advantage over China, economic advancement at home, and energy dominance abroad.
| | Ken Luongo, President, Partnership for Global Security | | | | |
Spotlight
Tech and industrial giants Amazon, Google, Meta, Dow, and others signed a pledge supporting the goal of at least tripling global nuclear capacity by 2050 at the CERAWeek 2025 conference. The signatories agreed that nuclear energy capacity should at least triple by 2050 from current levels to help achieve global goals for enhanced energy resilience and security. They also agreed that there is a significant role for nuclear technologies to provide generation for a wide range of economic activity including technology sectors, increased electrification, and hydrogen production. This announcement builds on the previous pledges by 31 countries, 140 nuclear industry companies, and 14 major global banks to support tripling global nuclear energy capacity by 2050.
The CERA meeting highlighted the growing energy demands of artificial intelligence and data centers. This interest initially focused on small modular reactors (SMR) and advanced reactors, but some companies, including Google, are weighing large-scale nuclear reactors as well. These companies expect they will be using an increasing amount of energy and see nuclear energy as a way to meet their energy requirements while also cutting their carbon emissions.
| | Patrick Kendall, Program Director, Partnership for Global Security | | Issues of Special Interest | | Global AI and Data Center Energy | | |
European data center developer Data4 signed an agreement with Westinghouse Electric to evaluate the AP300 small modular reactor (SMR) for deployment at one of its future European data centers. Westinghouse President and CEO Patrick Fragman said SMRs offer a promising solution for powering the next generation of energy-intensive computing and added that the AP300 reactor can provide data centers with an on-site power source for reliable and carbon-free energy. Data4 currently operates 35 European data centers, which are grouped together on campuses.
British professional advisory service Lloyd’s Register announced it will use generative artificial intelligence to advance the application of maritime nuclear technology. Lloyd’s Register will become one of the first maritime organizations to use generative AI for permitting capabilities built upon Microsoft Azure OpenAI service. Last year, Lloyd’s Register signed a joint development project agreement with Core Power and AP Moller-Maersk to conduct a regulatory assessment study to determine the safety and regulatory considerations for a potential nuclear-propelled containership to undertake cargo operations at a European port.
According to a report by the CBRE Group, data center supply in major markets like Northern Virginia, Atlanta, and Chicago surged 34% year-over-year in 2024 to 6,922.6 megawatts (MW), with a further 6,350 MW under construction at the year’s end. Additionally, the data center vacancy rate in primary markets fell to 1.9%, reflecting the tight supply and robust demand for artificial intelligence and cloud services. Finally, volume-based discounts for larger tenants have been significantly reduced while data center operators grapple with elevated construction and equipment costs.
Last Energy announced plans to deploy 30 microreactors to serve data center customers across the territory of the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT). The 20-MWe units would be deployed in phases, eventually adding 60 megawatts of electric capacity to the ERCOT grid in the coming years. Last Energy submitted a grid interconnection request to ERCOT this February and is exploring options for both front-of-the-meter and behind-the-meter connections. ERCOT is expecting substantial load growth over the next five years, with a total growth estimate of 43 GW through 2029.
| | The Impact of Russia's Invasion of Ukraine on International Nuclear Affairs | | |
Rosatom chief Alexei Likhachev stated that Russia plans to restart the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant once "military and political conditions allow”. The move would mark a major escalation in Russia’s control over Ukrainian infrastructure and raise concerns about nuclear safety, given the plant’s location near active conflict zones, the departure of much of its trained Ukrainian staff, and limited access to cooling water following the Russian attack on the Khakhovka Dam. Experts warn that restarting the plant under Russian control would set a dangerous precedent for international nuclear security, further eroding global norms against seizing civilian nuclear facilities in wartime.
The 27th rotation of International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) observers at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant was completed after a month’s delay, with inspectors traveling solely through Russian-controlled territory for the first time. The visit followed multiple security incidents, including drone and mortar attacks on previous convoys, prompting IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi to prioritize staff safety over traditional routes through Ukrainian territory. Ukraine strongly condemned the move as a violation of its sovereignty while Grossi insisted the route change was an exceptional measure to protect IAEA personnel.
The State Emergency Service of Ukraine said that work to tackle the smoldering fires in the insulation layers of Chernobyl’s giant shelter has been completed three weeks after it was struck by a drone. According to the State Agency of Ukraine Exclusion Zone Management, thermal image monitoring will continue, and emergency workers will remain on site in case they are required. A drone caused a 15 square meter hole in the external cladding of the giant shelter of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, with Ukraine blaming Russia for the drone strike while the IAEA has yet to attribute blame to either side.
French nuclear fuel cycle company Orano and Ukraine's Energoatom have signed a long-term agreement to supply uranium enrichment services to Ukraine’s nuclear power plants through 2040, strengthening the country’s energy security. The deal ensures a stable and diversified fuel supply for Ukraine’s nuclear fleet, aligning with Energoatom’s plans to expand its nuclear capacity in the future. To meet growing demand, Orano is expanding its Georges Besse 2 enrichment plant in France by 30%.
| | Global Nuclear Developments, Geopolitics, & Governance | | |
Rosatom director general Alexei Likhachev announced the agency’s top priorities for the year of 2025. Likhachev stated that generating the first kilowatt-hours from the new Russian-build nuclear power plants in Turkey and Bangladesh, as well as pouring first concrete for Leningrad II’s fourth unit and putting the first new Kursk unit into commercial operation, are priorities for the current year. Likhachev also added that Russia will need to build 38 nuclear units in Siberia and the Far East in order to fulfill the government’s national plan for expanding capacity up to 2042.
Russia and Myanmar have signed an intergovernmental agreement to cooperate on the development of a 110 MW small modular reactor (SMR) project, with the potential to expand capacity to 330 MW. The deal, signed by Rosatom and Myanmar’s Science and Technology Ministry, builds on previous agreements covering nuclear safety, workforce training, and infrastructure development. While Myanmar currently has no nuclear energy, the project is part of broader energy cooperation with Russia, which also includes renewable energy initiatives like a 200 MW wind power plant.
Rosatom has secured a $40 million contract with Brazil’s Indústrias Nucleares do Brasil (INB) for the conversion and enrichment of domestically mined uranium. The deal aligns with Brazil’s recently adopted nuclear energy development program and supports its long-term goal of achieving self-sufficiency in uranium enrichment. Currently, Brazil has two nuclear units in operation at Angra dos Reis, with a third unit partially built, and is expanding its domestic enrichment capacity, aiming to meet the full fuel demand of its reactors by 2037.
Russian nuclear regulator Rostekhnadzor has issued a location license for the proposed third unit at the Kursk II Nuclear Power Plant, allowing preparatory work to begin for construction. Kursk II is a new nuclear power plant that will feature four VVER-TOI reactors, with the first two nuclear reactors currently under construction. Construction of the first unit began in 2018, with construction of the outer dome completed in 2023. The new units will replace the four units at the existing Kursk Nuclear Power Plant which are scheduled to be shut down by 2031.
Russia’s Leningrad Nuclear Power Plant has installed an upgraded generator stator at Unit 6 as part of ongoing modernization efforts. The upgrade aims to improve vibration resistance and durability, ensuring more reliable and efficient operation of the VVER-1200 reactor. During the current maintenance outage, specialists are also conducting extensive inspections, reactor and turbine maintenance, and nuclear fuel handling, with all scheduled work expected to conclude by the end of March.
Rosatom has begun assembling the RITM-200 reactor vessel for the Leningrad nuclear-powered icebreaker, bringing the total number of RITM reactor units currently being produced to eight. The new generation of Russian nuclear-powered icebreakers each feature two RITM-200 reactors, and the RITM-200 reactors are also going to be used in floating power plants which are being built to supply electricity for a large industrial consumer in Chukotka. The nuclear-powered icebreakers are a key part of Russia’s plan to develop the Northern Sea Route.
| | |
China Power Engineering Consulting Group Corporation (CPECC) is seeking to collaborate with Vietnam’s state-owned energy giants Petrovietnam (PVN) and Vietnam Electricity (EVN) in nuclear power. At a recent meeting, PVN chairman Le Manh Hung urged CPECC to share nuclear power experiences as the Vietnamese energy group is studying the sector. Last month, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh assigned PVN and EVN to be the investors of Ninh Thuan 1 and 2 nuclear power plants, respectively.
China aims to commercialize nuclear fusion for emissions-free power generation by 2050, with a demonstration phase beginning around 2045. The state-owned China National Nuclear Corp. (CNNC) is investing heavily in fusion research, including tokamak devices, and has formed the China Fusion Corp. to accelerate development. If successful, this would position China as a global leader in nuclear fusion, complementing its rapid expansion of conventional nuclear power.
A recently declassified report reveals that China has far more thorium reserves than previously estimated, potentially offering an abundant energy source for nuclear power. Thorium-based molten-salt reactors (TMSRs) are proposed as safer, more efficient, and less waste producing than uranium reactors. China already has approved a pilot TMSR plant in the Gobi Desert set to be operational by 2029. Mining waste from sites like Inner Mongolia’s Bayan Obo complex could supply enough thorium to power China for 60,000 years, but challenges remain in extraction processes and potential weaponization concerns.
China is developing a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier designed to rival the USS Gerald R. Ford, marking a significant advancement in its naval capabilities. Satellite imagery from the Dalian shipbuilding facility suggests that China is testing equipment for a new catapult launch system, which would enable the carrier to launch fighter jets from four positions, matching U.S. supercarrier capabilities. If confirmed, this would be China's first nuclear-powered carrier, following the Liaoning, Shandong, and Fujian, all of which are conventionally powered. Beijing has not officially acknowledged the new vessel, referred to as the Type 04 carrier.
The reactor pressure vessel has been installed at Unit 1 of the Lianjiang Nuclear Power Plant. In a statement by the Shanghai Nuclear Engineering Research and Design Institute (SNERDI), it noted that during the preliminary preparations for this hoisting, the integrated installation technology for the reactor pressure vessel shell insulation was used for the first time. Construction of the first two CAP1000 reactors at the Lianjiang site was initially approved in 2022, with Unit 1 expected to be completed and put into operation in 2028.
Nine major contracts have been signed for the construction of units 1 and 2 of the Bailong Nuclear Power Plant in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The contracts included the general contracting contract for the units, the main project construction supervision service contract, the nuclear island civil engineering and installation contract, and the conventional island contract. Once Bailong units 1 and 2 are put into operation, the annual power generation of the plant will be about 20 billion kilowatt-hours.
| | |
The United Kingdom’s small modular reactor (SMR) selection process has entered its final stage, with GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy International, Holtec Britain, Rolls-Royce SMR, and Westinghouse Electric Company invited to submit final tenders. Great British Nuclear (GBN) aims to select one or two technologies for deployment at sites such as Wylfa in North Wales and Oldbury in Gloucestershire, with a final decision expected in Spring 2025. The shortlisted SMR designs are undergoing evaluation based on safety, deliverability, and their potential to support a fleet of SMRs.
The United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) and Italian energy company Eni signed an agreement to jointly conduct research and development in fusion energy, starting with the construction of the world’s first and most advanced tritium fuel cycle facility. UKAEA and Eni will collaborate to develop advanced technological solutions in fusion energy and related technologies, with Eni contributing its expertise in managing and developing large-scale projects. UKAEA stated that the UKAEA H3AT tritium loop facility will be built at its Culham campus, with the facility set to be completed in 2028.
Rolls-Royce SMR has selected German energy technology company Siemens Energy as its global turbine systems partner for its small modular reactor (SMR). Under this agreement, Siemens will be the sole supplier of steam turbines, generators, and other auxiliary equipment for Rolls-Royce SMR’s planned nuclear plants, with Siemens adding that the agreement is expected to lead to the exclusive supply of conventional technology for future SMRs. The final contract and its specific details is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
United States-based engineering company Amentum has been awarded the program and project management contract for the UK’s planned Sizewell C nuclear power plant, providing technical support, project controls, and site management until the plant begins generating electricity. The project aims to replicate the design of Hinkley Point C’s two EPR reactors to accelerate construction and reduce costs, with Sizewell C expected to produce 3.2 GW of electricity. The UK government, which owns a majority stake in Sizewell C Ltd, has committed $3.2 billion to the project, with a final investment decision expected in the upcoming Spending Review.
Électricité de France (EDF) announced it will offer long-term nuclear production allocation contracts to companies outside of France as long as they are able to take delivery of the electricity. Contracts amounting to about 10 terawatt hours will be open to any European company with power needs greater than 7 gigawatt hours per year or suppliers with the ability to transmit the energy from France. The call for interest comes as EDF struggles to sign long-term agreements with industrial users at home.
French nuclear fuel company Orano signed an agreement for a €400 million ($433.2 million) loan from the European Investment Bank to help fund the expansion of its nuclear enrichment facility in southern France. Orano is expanding the facility to meet an expected growth in demand for nuclear fuel as European countries make plans to build new nuclear reactors. The €1.7 billion expansion will raise fuel production at the site by 30%, and the remaining financing will come from Orano’s own financing capacities and the debt market.
Turkish Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar stated that the Turkish government has contingency plans to take control of the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant from Russia if national security and vital economic interests deem it necessary. Bayraktar said that Ankara could invoke specific provisions in the bilateral agreement signed with Russia to accomplish this and added that Akkuyu remains a Turkish-registered entity despite Russian ownership. The Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant will comprise four Russian-built reactors under Russia’s build-own-operate (BOO) model.
German startup Proxima Fusion published its design for a commercial nuclear fusion power plant in the Fusion Engineering and Design journal. Its plans for what it calls a Stellerator are being heralded as a milestone in what could eventually become a working fusion power plant, with the paper marking the biggest development in fusion technology since the tokamak breakthrough a decade ago. Proxima has received $35 million in funding from the European Union and the German government alongside $30 million in venture capital funding to develop a first-of-a-kind nuclear fusion reactor.
The Dutch province of Noord-Brabant announced it will invest €4 million ($4.2 million) in the further development of molten salt reactors (MSR). The province says it will contribute 50% of the total project costs, with the remaining financing coming from the companies themselves. In January of this year, Dutch technology companies Demcon, Horizon, and VDL Group signed a project agreement to develop and test technology for MSRs, with the PROMOSA project focusing on developing and validating the manufacturability, safety, and functionality of critical components for these reactors.
Finland completed a key trial for the world’s first deep geological nuclear waste repository, successfully encapsulating five spent nuclear fuel canisters at the Onkalo facility. This marks a major step in the final disposal process, but the next phase—a trial run for the underground repository facilities—has yet to begin. Posiva has spent decades developing the Onkalo site, which is set to become the first operational deep geological repository for spent nuclear fuel, with full startup expected in the mid-2020s.
Finnish state-owned energy company Fortum has partnered with Finnish technology company Steady Energy to support the development of its LDR-50 small modular reactor (SMR) for district heating by providing simulation expertise. Using Apros software, Fortum will create a digital twin of the reactor to assist with licensing, technical validation, and design optimization. Steady Energy, which has already signed agreements for 15 reactors in Finland, aims to begin construction of its first district heating plant in 2029, with regulatory assessment of the reactor design currently underway.
Westinghouse Electric and Spanish nuclear fuel manufacturer Enusa have signed a new Technology Cooperation Agreement that extends the current licensing agreement for 10 years. In addition to signing this agreement, the partners also signed a contract under which Enusa will fabricate VVER-440 fuel assemblies for Fortum for its delivery to its Loviisa Nuclear Power Plant in Finland later this year. The collaboration between Westinghouse and Enusa formally began in 1974, with the first pressurized water reactor (PWR) technology transfer agreement.
Spain’s nuclear industry signed a manifesto urging the government to reconsider its plan to phase out nuclear power by 2035, following a recent parliamentary motion calling for lifetime extensions. Signed by 32 companies, the manifesto argues that the 2019 phaseout agreement no longer reflects today’s industrial, geopolitical, and economic realities, emphasizing the need for nuclear power to maintain energy security and competitiveness. Spain’s fleet of seven commercial nuclear power plants generated just over 52 TWh net of electricity in 2024, accounting for 19.57% of the country’s total net electricity production.
Italy has passed a new law allowing the return of nuclear energy, forty years after voters banned it in a 1987 referendum. The legislation, which still requires parliamentary approval, grants officials the authority to issue decrees supporting nuclear power, with procedural steps expected to be completed by 2027. The government sees nuclear energy—particularly small modular reactors (SMRs)—as key to decarbonizing Italy’s economy and improving energy security, with state-controlled utility Enel and other energy firms expected to play a leading role in future projects.
Fusion for Energy has completed the manufacturing of the second European sector of the Vacuum Vessel for the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) in collaboration with a consortium consisting of Ansaldo Nucleare, Westinghouse, and Walter Tosto. The ITER’s vacuum vessel houses the fusion reactions and acts as a first safety containment barrier, with the fabrication of vacuum vessel sectors shared between Europe and South Korea. The ITER is a major international project to build a tokamak fusion device designed to prove the feasibility of fusion as a large-scale source of energy.
Armenia is trying to attract U.S. diplomatic attention by highlighting trade and investment opportunities in rare earths mining and nuclear power. Armenian officials are also dangling the prospect that a U.S. firm could build a new nuclear reactor in Armenia to replace the outdated Metsamor power station. Armenia’s government is currently considering bids from U.S., Russian, and South Korean firms to build a new nuclear reactor, although government minister David Khudatyan has not provided any indication on when the winning bidder would be announced.
| | |
Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) issued the first green bond in Asia, the proceeds of which can be used to finance nuclear energy projects. The goal is to sell $154 million of the notes to global institutional investors in Hong Kong and Singapore. The funds from KHNP’s bond sale will be used to improve nuclear power plant safety and fund research and development related to next-generation nuclear power plants. With the successful issuance of the green bond, the company will be able to pursue nuclear power projects at lower interest rates. Last year, power producers Constellation and Kansai Electric Power also issued corporate green bonds that can be used to finance nuclear energy projects.
Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) signed an agreement with Korean construction firm Samsung C&T to establish a strategic partnership for the co-development of overseas nuclear power plant projects. According to the agreement, the two companies agreed to collaborate on joint proposals for new nuclear power projects utilizing business-to-business cooperation, strengthening competitiveness for large nuclear power bids, and collaboration on small modular reactors (SMR). The two companies will focus on identifying nuclear power plant projects in the Asia-Pacific region.
South Korea’s National Assembly has passed an act that stipulates the construction of interim storage facilities for high-level radioactive waste by 2050 and permanent disposal facilities by 2060. The act includes provisions for the construction and operation of interim storage facilities and permanent disposal facilities and permanent disposal facilities for high-level radioactive waste. This also includes the establishment of the High-Level Radioactive Waste Committee under the Prime Minister and the establishment of a procedure for selecting a high-level radioactive waste storage site.
Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) signed two agreements to collaborate with Kazakhstan on the utilization of uranium resources dissolved in seawater and groundwater. The memoranda of understanding aim to facilitate technological exchange and joint research between the two countries to identify promising water resources for uranium extraction. KHNP, Al-Firabi University, and IHT will jointly investigate uranium concentrations and distribution in Kazakhstan’s seawater and groundwater and will also conduct performance evaluations of uranium absorbents.
Japan’s Supreme Court finalized not guilty verdicts against two former executives of Tokyo Electric Power Co. (TEPCO) who were accused of negligence concerning the 2011 disaster at the Fukushima nuclear plant. The top court upheld lower court decisions that said the magnitude of the tsunami that led to the triple meltdown at the plant could not have been predicted, meaning that the defendants could not be found guilty of professional negligence resulting in death or injury. Defendants Ichiro Takekuro and Sakae Muto were both vice presidents at TEPCO when a tsunami flooded the nuclear plant in 2011.
Indian Minister of State Jitendra Singh told India’s parliament that the first two lead units of a 55 MW variant of the Bharat small modular reactor (SMR) will be built at a Department of Atomic Energy site by 2033. Singh provided this information of the Bharat SMR in addition to information on the 200 MW version, the BSMR-200. The BSMR-200 is being designed and developed by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre and the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL), while India is also working on constructing a fleet of indigenously designed 700 MWe pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWR).
PT Thorcon Power Indonesia (PT TPI) submitted documents to Indonesia’s nuclear regulator, initiating the licensing process for the construction of a power plant based on its advanced molten salt reactor technology. With this submission, PT TPI officially becomes the first nuclear power plant license applicant in Indonesia’s history, and a preliminary site survey conducted on Kelasa Island has identified the site as a strong candidate. PTI TPI’s proposed plant will feature the Thorcon 500, which is a molten salt reactor power plant.
Three countries have submitted proposals to build nuclear power plants, according to sources at the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin). These bidders are the U.S. company Westinghouse Electric, China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC), and Russia’s Rosatom. Deputy Chairman for Energy and Mineral Resources (MEMR) Aryo Djojohadikusumo said that these bidders are now negotiating with relevant parties in Indonesia. Under current President Prabowo Subianto, Indonesia has expressed interest in nuclear power.
| | |
South African nuclear reactor developer Stratek Global has announced a strategic partnership with France’s Groupe Albatros with the aim of preparing feasibility studies for potential projects in Africa and the Middle East. Stratek says the partnership is aimed at deploying its small modular reactors (SMR) across Africa and the Middle East, with Chairman Kelvin Kemm stating, “We can put our HTMR-100 reactor absolutely anywhere, water or no water.” The HTMR-100 design is to produce 35 megawatts of electricity and is derived from the South African Pebble Bed Modular Reactor (PBMR) program.
South Africa’s Koeberg nuclear plant experienced an unplanned shutdown of Unit 2 while operating at full capacity due to a non-technical trip during work on Unit 1, which is currently offline. Eskom, the state power utility, stated that the shutdown followed protocol and that the restart process is underway. Unit 2 is expected to be reconnected to the national grid within 48 hours. Koeberg, Africa’s only commercial nuclear plant, provides about 1,860 megawatts or 5% of South Africa’s electricity supply.
Officials in Zimbabwe recently said the country will work with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and likely with investment from Russia, to develop a nuclear power program. Zimbabwe’s Minister of Energy and Power Development, Edgar Moyo, previously stated that his country will collaborate with Russia on the construction of small modular reactors (SMR) and that the IAEA has indicated their willingness to help introduce nuclear energy to Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe joins other African countries exploring nuclear power as a way to help solve chronic electricity supply problems.
| | |
The Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) signed a strategic cooperation agreement with French nuclear start-up Newcleo to explore advanced reactor technologies, sustainable fuel solutions, and global investments. The partnership will focus on developing lead-cooled fast reactors (LFRs), supporting decarbonization efforts for data centers, off-grid applications, and hydrogen production.
IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi recently expressed concerns over Iran’s nuclear program, particularly its stockpile of uranium enriched to 60%, the highest level reached by any non-nuclear weapon state. He highlighted inconsistencies between Iran’s declarations and the IAEA’s findings of undeclared uranium particles, stressing the need for greater transparency. Grossi urged Iran to fully implement the Joint Statement of March 2023 and engage in serious dialogue to resolve outstanding safeguard issues.
Jordan has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Kazakhstan which allow it to take advantage of Jordan’s massive reserves of uranium. In an interview with The Jordan Times, Jordan Uranium Mining Company (JUMCO) General Manager Mohammad Shannag highlighted Kazakhstan’s pivotal role in transferring advanced uranium mining technologies to Jordan. Jordan’s uranium reserves hold around 42,000 tons of uranium oxide and are valued at $6.3 billion.
Egypt and Rosatom completed the installation of the second tier of the inner containment building of Unit 2 at the El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant. The director of the El Dabaa construction project, Alexey Kononenko, said that this milestone was implemented ahead of schedule and opens up the horizon for Egyptian and Russian officials to work on reinforcement and formwork installation with subsequent concreting of the second tier of the containment system. The El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant will be Egypt’s first nuclear power plant and will comprise four VVER-1200 units.
| | El Salvador is exploring the use of thorium-fueled advanced nuclear reactors to expand its energy sector, reducing reliance on costly fossil fuel imports. A key milestone is the planned research reactor by 2030, which will help train specialists and pave the way for commercial deployment. El Salvador has partnered with international organizations, including the IAEA, Argentina, and the United States, to develop its nuclear program and regulatory framework. | | North America Nuclear Collaborations and Policy | | |
The Department of Energy found no significant impacts in its final environmental review of infrastructure planned to support TerraPower’s $4 billion next-generation nuclear plant proposed at the site of a retired coal-fired plant in Wyoming. The Department of Energy added that following this assessment, it plans to authorize the funds for site preparation and support infrastructure work. TerraPower’s Natrium power plant is a proposed 345-megawatt sodium-cooled fast neutron unit with a molten salt energy storage system, but it still has to wait on a construction permit from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) which is expected to come in 2026.
U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said he was planning to work with Congress on giving emerging nuclear technology both financial and regulatory support. However, he did not detail how the Trump administration was planning to accomplish this goal. Wright had previously served on the board of the small modular reactor (SMR) developer Oklo before he was confirmed as the U.S. Energy Secretary.
Several U.S. Senators sent a letter to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) Chairman, David Wright, encouraging the NRC to prioritize voting on the implementation of the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 National Environmental Policy Act Amendments. Additionally, the letter urges the NRC to support an ambitious schedule for the completion of associated rule-making to update the Commission’s regulations. The Senators stated that the NRC’s current environmental review process needs to be modernized to allow for the Agency to carry out its licensing duties to meet today’s urgent energy needs.
TerraPower and HD Hyundai announced a strategic collaboration to further scale the global manufacturing supply chain for Natrium reactor components. The agreement creates the manufacturing foundation necessary for full commercial deployment beyond the first project that is currently under construction and combines TerraPower’s cutting-edge reactor technology with HD Hyundai’s manufacturing expertise. This partnership builds upon TerraPower choosing HD Hyundai in 2024 to develop the reactor vessel for the first Natrium plant in Wyoming.
The Idaho National Laboratory (INL) conducted the world’s first safety test in more than 20 years of a high burnup fast reactor fuel at its Transient Reactor Test (TREAT) facility. The lab performed transient tests on a high burnup metallic fuel, using a new test capsule specifically designed to test fast reactor fuels that uses a variety of sensors to monitor fuel behavior during testing. The testing is part of a collaboration between the U.S. Department of Energy and the Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) to develop and qualify fuels for fast reactors.
NuScale released an update that it is in advanced commercial dialogue with technology and industrial companies, and national and local governments on potential small modular reactor (SMR) details. The company has ordered long-lead materials for six modules from supply chain partner Doosan Enerbility in anticipation of custom orders, and it is advancing its 462-megawatt power plant project in Romania. However, NuScale has yet to finalize a deal with any U.S. data center operators due to the complexity of putting these projects together.
The House Financial Services Committee advanced an amended version of the “International Nuclear Energy Financing Act” with a 39-10 vote. The Act would encourage the creation of a trust fund for nuclear energy assistance at the World Bank and other international financial institutions, as well as require the Treasury Department to advocate for more streamlined international collaboration on nuclear energy. The committee approved an amendment that would ensure the United States only advocates for lifting of restrictions on nuclear energy financing for projects that meet or exceed the quality standards of the United States or allied nations.
Nuclear technology company Oklo is participating in the Department of Energy’s Voucher Program which is expected to support the evaluation and testing of advanced structural material for Oklo’s Aurora powerhouse reactor. The collaboration leverages DoE-funded vouchers to conduct advanced material characterization and real-world testing to validate high-performance materials that will support Oklo’s fast reactor designs. Oklo is developing the Aurora powerhouse microreactor which will use high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) fuel.
The Supreme Court is discussing a case on whether to restart plans to temporarily store nuclear waste at sites in rural Texas and New Mexico. The Court took up a challenge by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and a private company with a license for the Texas facility to an appellate ruling that found the commission had no authority to grant the license. Another issue is whether federal law allows the NRC to license temporary storage sites. The outcome of the case will also affect plans for a similar facility in New Mexico.
The General Services Administration has revoked a request to terminate the lease for the building set up to manage emergencies at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) in New Mexico. The Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) website previously listed the office in Carlsbad as among the 748 leases it is terminating, targeting the office of the employees running the site rather than the waste site itself. This is the second time the Trump administration has backtracked plans to cut costs relating to nuclear energy and security as it recently reversed the firing of numerous workers in the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA).
Scientists at the Idaho National Laboratory made progress on the Molten Chloride Reactor Experiment (MCRE) by perfecting the fuel-making process after five years of effort. The team was successful in converting more than 90% of the metal uranium feedstock into a compound that dissolves in the molten salt to create usable fuel for a molten chloride reactor. The MCRE entails research and development for the first operational advanced nuclear reactor to use a mixture of molten chloride salt and uranium as fuel.
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers is pushing for expanding nuclear power in his latest state budget, which includes $1 million to study siting a new nuclear power plant in the state and expanding an existing research credit to cover nuclear power. Evers told WisPolitics that he’s been thinking about bolstering nuclear energy in Wisconsin for years despite not including any nuclear power provisions in his previous three budgets. Wisconsin currently operates one nuclear power plant in Two Rivers, which generates 5% of the state’s electricity.
Pennsylvania State University has initiated the application process to construct a Westinghouse eVinci microreactor at a new research facility at its University Park campus. As part of the application process, Penn State will continue to engage with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and determine possible locations for the facility. Westinghouse and Penn State signed a memorandum of understanding back in 2022 to partner on research and development efforts and also discussed siting the eVinci microreactor on its campus.
| | |
The Canadian government announced major investments in nuclear energy, including $304 million to support the development of the next-generation CANDU reactor MONARK by AtkinsRéalis. The initiative aims to modernize Canada’s homegrown CANDU technology, strengthen domestic energy security, and expand clean electricity generation for both national and international markets. Additionally, the government is allocating $55 million to Ontario Power Generation's Darlington New Nuclear Project to advance three GE Hitachi BWRX-300 SMRs and investing $52.4 million to support the development and deployment of CANDU reactors and SMRs in Saskatchewan, Alberta, and Ontario.
Bruce Power completed the defueling of Bruce Unit 4 in a record 24 days, making it the fastest Candu reactor defuel ever. The process is part of the unit’s Major Component Replacement (MCR) project, which involves replacing key reactor components to extend its operating life by 30-35 years. Leveraging lessons from previous MCR projects, Bruce Power has streamlined efficiency and safety measures, with chemical decontamination and major component disassembly set to begin next, leading to the unit’s planned restart in 2027.
Ontario Power Generation (OPG) is exploring new nuclear generation at its Wesleyville site, which is already zoned for electricity generation and has key infrastructure in place. Elsewhere, OPG is progressing on the Darlington Refurbishment Project, keeping it on time and within its C$12.8 billion ($8.91 billion) budget, with completion of the final unit expected in 2026. OPG is also advancing plans for four small modular reactors (SMRs) at Darlington, pending regulatory approval, aiming to deploy Canada’s first grid-scale SMR by the end of the decade.
Prodigy Clean Energy and Lloyd’s Register will collaborate on completing the development of lifecycle requirements for Prodigy’s Transportable Nuclear Power Plants (TNPP), with the goal of achieving the licensing and deployment for an energy project in Canada in the next 5-7 years. Partially funded by a $1.9 million Government of Canada Award under the Natural Resources Canada Enabling SMRs program, this project will produce models for TNPP marine fabrication, marine transport, and centralized decommissioning.
President Trump's tariff threats on uranium imports from Canada, which supplies over a quarter of the US's uranium, could potentially raise prices and disrupt the growing nuclear energy sector in the US. While tariffs may push efforts to build up domestic uranium supply, it would likely result in a 10 percent increase in uranium prices, according to Cameco, a major Canadian producer. The US's dependence on foreign uranium, despite having some domestic mining, is highlighted by its small share of global uranium reserves compared to Canada's.
| | There are no new updates for this region. | | |
Utah’s Nuclear Power Play Is a Winning Hand
Real Clear Energy, March 12
Small Nuclear Power Struggles at Cusp of US Electricity Demand Boom
Reuters, March 11
“The Time Is Now” to Advance U.S. Nuclear – Part 1
American Nuclear Society, March 10
US Eyes Dangerous Gap in Nuclear Fuel Supplies in Major Threat to Energy, National Security
Fox Business, March 8
The US Can Reduce Russia’s Nuclear Energy – And Geopolitical – Influence
The Atlantic Council, March 7
A Place Where Tariffs Would Actually Help
The Breakthrough Institute, March 7
A Strategic Opportunity: U.S. Funding in Vietnam’s Pursuit of Nuclear Power
Center for Strategic & International Studies, March 6
The Future for Nuclear Is Bright, But Only If We Learn Lessons of the Past
The Financial Post, March 5
Tripling Nuclear Energy Capacity by 2050: Maximizing a High-Energy Future for Data Centres, Refineries, Manufacturing, and Beyond
Power Mag, March 5
The SMR Gamble: Betting on Nuclear to Fuel the Data Center Boom
Power Mag, March 3
Nuclear Renaissance – Avoiding New Generation Reactor Construction Issues
Commercial Dispute Resolution, March 3
Inside the Nuclear Capital of America
E&E News, February 28
The Promise of Nuclear Energy
Forbes, February 28
| | |
News items and summaries compiled by:
Patrick Kendall, Program Manager, Partnership for Global Security
Emily Day, Della Ratta Fellow, Partnership for Global Security
Jocelyn Livier, Della Ratta Fellow, Partnership for Global Security
| | For twenty-five years the Partnership for Global Security (PGS) has developed actionable responses to global security challenges by engaging international, private sector, and multidisciplinary expert partners to assess policy needs, identify effective strategies, and drive demonstrable results.
| | | | |
