Türkiye has taken a significant step forward in the realm of nuclear energy by signing a memorandum of understanding with Copenhagen Atomics, a Danish company specializing in nuclear technology. This collaboration is set to harness Türkiye’s thorium resources to develop next-generation nuclear technologies. The agreement, facilitated by the Türkiye Energy, Nuclear and Mineral Research Agency (TENMAK), will primarily focus on exploring thorium technologies, with an emphasis on the domestic production of thorium compounds that are compatible with advanced nuclear reactors.
A key component of this partnership is the research, development, and design of projects aimed at producing nuclear-grade thorium compounds within Türkiye, specifically for utilization in molten salt reactors. This initiative also seeks to engage Turkish technology firms, industrial entities, and researchers in the pursuit of high-value nuclear technologies. Copenhagen Atomics is at the forefront of developing fourth-generation molten salt reactor technology through its innovative modular “Onion Core” concept. As part of the agreement, the company will evaluate how this technology aligns with Türkiye’s research infrastructure, workforce, and industrial capabilities.
This move comes as Türkiye aims to reduce its reliance on imported nuclear fuel, viewing thorium as a viable alternative. The country is committed to expanding its nuclear power capabilities alongside renewable energy sources. Its ambitious plans include developing both large-scale reactors and small modular reactors, targeting an impressive 15 gigawatts of conventional nuclear capacity and an additional 5 gigawatts of small modular reactor capacity by the year 2050. The Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant, Türkiye’s inaugural nuclear facility, will feature four reactors with a total capacity of 4,800 megawatts.
Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar highlighted the significance of this collaboration with Copenhagen Atomics, noting the potential benefits of utilizing thorium, which Türkiye possesses in relatively abundant quantities. He expressed optimism that this partnership could eventually pave the way for commercially viable nuclear technology, enhancing the country’s energy independence and technological prowess.