The latest on thorium energy, curated daily.
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Core Power intends to assess Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) developed by BWXT for potential use in floating nuclear power plants. This evaluation specifically targets the technical and operational aspects of such marine-based systems. The initiative could contribute to the diversification of energy sources and the development of flexible power delivery systems.
A strategic Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between French-Dutch start-up Thorizon and South Korea's Hyundai Engineering & Construction. This collaboration aims to accelerate the global development and deployment of Thorizon's One molten salt reactor, combining advanced nuclear technology with extensive engineering experience for industrial decarbonisation.
Moltex Energy Canada is experimentally validating its Waste-to-Stable-Salt (WATSS) process, a nuclear fuel recycling technology. This pyrochemical method aims to convert used nuclear fuel into a resource, potentially reducing waste volume and longevity, and could integrate with advanced reactor designs.
The Canadian-German nuclear technology company Dual Fluid and the Government of Rwanda are collaborating on the development and construction of a demonstration reactor in Rwanda. This project utilizes a novel nuclear fission principle with liquid fuel and liquid lead, aiming to be operational around 2026. The technology promises efficient energy production and reduced nuclear waste.
TerraPower's Natrium reactor has officially entered the Generic Design Assessment (GDA) process in the United Kingdom. This signifies the initial regulatory phase where its design will be evaluated for potential deployment within the UK.
TerraPower began construction on the Natrium reactor in Kemmerer, Wyoming on April 23, 2026. The sodium-cooled fast reactor (345 MWe base, 500 MWe peak) uses an integrated molten salt thermal energy storage system. It is the first commercial reactor construction permit in approximately a decade.
Kairos Power broke ground on Hermes 2 in Oak Ridge, Tennessee in April 2026. The fluoride salt-cooled reactor (KP-FHR) produces up to 50 MWe using TRISO fuel and FLiBe coolant. Google has a 500 MW deployment agreement and TVA signed the first US utility PPA for a Gen IV reactor.
Clean Core Thorium Energy and Canadian Nuclear Laboratories announced on April 16, 2026 an agreement to manufacture ANEEL thorium-based fuel bundles at Chalk River Laboratories. The fuel is compatible with existing CANDU reactors without major hardware modifications. The CNSC found 'no fundamental barriers' to licensing.
On April 16, 2026, Thorizon signed a memorandum of understanding with EPZ, NRG PALLAS, the provinces of Zeeland and Noord-Holland, Impuls Zeeland, ROM InWest and Invest-NL. The PIONEER demonstrator at Petten targets operation by 2030, followed by Thorizon One (100 MWe) at Borssele with a 2034 grid connection. Cumulative investment is expected to exceed one billion euros.
The NRC approved Part 53 on March 25, 2026, the first new reactor licensing framework since 1989. The technology-inclusive framework explicitly covers molten salt reactors, HTGRs, and microreactors. The NRC estimates application costs reduced by 50% or more, with design approval possible in 18 months.