US nuclear industry head urges Türkiye cooperation on small reactors

US nuclear industry head urges Türkiye cooperation on small reactors

The leader of the United States' main nuclear energy trade association has highlighted advanced small modular reactors (SMRs) as a prime area for strategic partnership between Washington and Ankara. Maria Korsnick, President of the Nuclear Energy Institute, stated such cooperation could integrate Türkiye into a burgeoning global supply chain for next-generation nuclear technology.

A strategic invitation into the SMR supply chain

Speaking on the sidelines of an energy forum in Washington, Korsnick told Anadolu, “SMRs is a great area for us to partner on... if Türkiye and the US could work together on an SMR, I think it's a great opportunity for you to get in the supply chain.” She emphasized that as the US expands its SMR fleet, it creates "an opportunity for you to thrive as well in the supply chain." This invitation follows a memorandum of understanding on nuclear cooperation signed during President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's visit to the White House last September.

The US nuclear sector's "vibrant" expansion

Korsnick, a 40-year industry veteran, described an unprecedented period of growth for US nuclear power. She noted plans to increase the current fleet of 94 reactors, including restarting the Palisades plant this year, and anticipated construction permits for advanced projects from companies like TerraPower and X-energy. She framed this domestic surge as creating export and partnership opportunities for allied nations like Türkiye.

Addressing AI-driven energy demand with nuclear power

When asked about soaring electricity needs from data centers and artificial intelligence, Korsnick argued nuclear power is essential. She stated that while tech companies may rely on fossil fuels in the short term, their long-term strategy requires "clean, reliable energy. That's nuclear power." She dismissed concerns that cheaper fossil fuels would curb nuclear demand, advocating for an "all of the above" energy strategy where nuclear plays a central role. For Türkiye, pursuing SMR technology aligns with goals for energy security, decarbonization, and high-tech industrial development.