TerraPower in Dialogue with Europe: Using Small Modules for the Energy Transition?

TerraPower, the innovation company in the field of nuclear technology supported by Bill Gates, is showing increasing interest in Europe. The focus is on integrating small modular reactors (SMRs) into the region's energy systems. According to a company spokesperson, there have been informal talks with European countries, including Turkey, although there are currently no formal negotiations with Turkish partners. Turkey is planning legal amendments to address the construction of SMRs, which are intended as a supplement to traditional nuclear facilities. This technology promises cost-efficient development opportunities due to construction in factories instead of directly at power plant sites. Nevertheless, the opening of TerraPower's first sodium reactor in Wyoming is delayed by two years to 2030 due to the unavailability of the necessary fuel, HALEU. Currently, it is only produced in commercial quantities in Russia, which is why discussions are being held with ASP Isotopes. Particularly due to Europe's growing energy demand and geopolitical tensions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, interest in reliable and clean energy sources like sodium reactors is increasing. Turkey also plans to diversify its energy production and aims to build several nuclear facilities, including a project by Rosatom in Akkuyu and further plans in Sinop and Thrace. To integrate SMRs into their nuclear portfolio, legislative amendments are necessary since current laws do not cover this technology.