Hyundai Engineering has signed memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with two US nuclear technology developers, Nano Nuclear Energy (NNE) and ARC Clean Technology, to explore cooperation on small modular reactor (SMR) projects. These Hyundai Engineering SMR partnerships focus on next-generation reactor technologies as demand for reliable, low-carbon electricity grows alongside artificial intelligence and data centre expansion.
Under the agreement with NNE, Hyundai Engineering plans to support the KRONOS micro modular reactor project at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus. The project aims to provide heat for the campus and advance its carbon neutrality goals.
The companies will explore engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) opportunities for auxiliary reactor facilities, modular design reviews, supply chain development and business planning. NNE, headquartered in New York and listed on Nasdaq, is developing a high-temperature gas-cooled microreactor.
Partnership Covers ARC-100 Reactor Deployment
Hyundai Engineering has also signed an MOU with ARC Clean Technology to explore cooperation on the first deployment of the ARC-100, a 100-megawatt electric sodium-cooled fast reactor.
ARC is pursuing a commercial demonstration plant at Idaho National Laboratory, with an initial capacity of approximately 200 megawatts and potential expansion to 600 megawatts, according to Hyundai Engineering.
Hyundai Engineering’s Nuclear Experience
Hyundai Engineering said its nuclear engineering experience spans more than four decades and includes 254 nuclear-related projects involving operating reactors, fuel facilities, research reactors and SMR technology.
The company also reported holding approximately 31% of the contract value in competitive nuclear design service bids commissioned by Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power over the past six years.
Its international work includes upgrades to research reactor facilities at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands and an initial design and consulting contract for a next-generation research reactor at the University of Missouri.
A Hyundai Engineering official said the agreements would expand the company’s capabilities across the project cycle, from design through engineering, procurement and construction, and strengthen its position as a partner in the global SMR market. The Hyundai Engineering SMR initiatives build on the company’s experience across nuclear engineering and project development.