“If the regulatory framework is established quickly, we could expect to deploy the first SMRs in Italy by 2033.” This is promised by Stefano Buono, CEO and founder of newcleo, the startup involved in the development of IV Generation nuclear reactors.
“We enthusiastically welcome the results of the G7 meeting on energy and climate. Support for nuclear energy and the phasing out of coal by 2035 go hand in hand, as nuclear energy can easily replace coal in heating applications industrial and electricity production” conclude from Newcleo.
What does the “return to nuclear power” announced at the climate conference mean?
“SMR” is the buzzword for the new push for the return of nuclear energy: small 300 mega watt reactors designed to be modular. This technology aims to provide a safe and stable energy source and significantly reduce current volumes of radioactive waste by using it as fuel in reactors.
The first step on newcleo's roadmap will be the design and construction of the first 30 MWe mini-LFR (lead-cooled fast reactor), which will be installed in France by 2030. In parallel, newcleo wants to invest in the construction of a plant for the manufacture of MOX (nuclear fuel based on mixed oxide of uranium and plutonium, obtained from existing nuclear waste) to power its reactors. Two years later Newcleo will also build its first 200MWe reactor in the UK.
In Italy, Newcleo, which employs over 100 researchers at its headquarters in Turin, has been collaborating with Enea since 2022 for the creation of its first prototype: a non-nuclear reactor that will allow testing all the components and operation of Newcleo's reactors, without however using radioactive materials.