SMR/advanced-reactor race — HALEU & supply chain
Key Questions
What funding has the DOE provided for advanced reactor projects?
The DOE awarded $94M to companies including Kairos, Westinghouse, BWXT, Constellation, and Framatome. The funding supports the Generation III+ Small Modular Reactor Pathway to Deployment Program.
How is TerraPower advancing its Natrium reactor with international partners?
TerraPower partnered with HD Hyundai as preferred supplier for its 345-MW Natrium reactor. The collaboration focuses on standardizing the supply chain for Gen-4 nuclear deployment.
What progress has NuScale made on SMR deployments?
NuScale is targeting 6GW with TVA and advancing its small modular reactor technology. It is positioned as a leader in the SMR market projected to reach $12.24B by 2033.
Which projects are underway at Darlington and Dow Texas for advanced reactors?
Darlington is developing the GE Hitachi BWRX-300 SMR. The NRC is reviewing Xe-100 at Dow Texas as part of broader deployment efforts.
What is NANO Nuclear's Kronos reactor and SMCI partnership?
NANO Nuclear is advancing its 4th-gen 45 MWth Kronos modular reactor. It partnered with Super Micro Computer to target AI infrastructure power needs.
How are HALEU supply agreements supporting the SMR race?
Antares signed a long-term HALEU supply deal with Urenco. This addresses critical fuel needs for microreactor and advanced reactor deployments.
What sites are being evaluated for small nuclear reactors in Nebraska?
NPPD identified Beatrice, Brownville, Norfolk, and Sutherland as potential SMR locations. The study supports expanded nuclear capacity planning.
Why is the supply chain a focus in the advanced reactor race?
Stable supply chains for components and fuel like HALEU are essential for rapid SMR buildout. Partnerships such as TerraPower-Hyundai aim to standardize and accelerate deployment.
DOE $94M awards to Kairos/Westinghouse/BWXT/Constellation/Framatome. TerraPower Natrium progress with HD Hyundai. NuScale TVA 6GW; Darlington GE Hitachi BWRX-300; NRC Xe-100 at Dow Texas. NANO Nuclear SMCI partnership.