Energy Commissioner Kadri Simson stresses the importance of building a competitive European RMS industry, essential for a sustainable, cost-effective and secure energy system. This initiative, born of collaboration between Member States, the nuclear industry, start-ups and researchers, aims to accelerate the deployment of this innovative technology. TheEU (European Union ) climate plan recommends reducing emissions by 90% by 2040, which will require the use of all available low-carbon technologies.
The challenge of the energy transition
The energy transition represents a major industrial opportunity for the EU, particularly for the clean technologies sector, including nuclear power. Developing the SMR supply chain by 2030 is crucial if we are not to fall behind in the global race for energy innovation. Startups will play a key role, bringing their capacity for innovation and agility to the table.
Bringing projects and technologies to fruition
The SMR Industrial Alliance must focus on concrete projects and available technologies. Simson stressed the need to move beyond generic research and discussion to stimulate the deployment of market-ready SMR designs in the next decade, while supporting innovation for new technologies.
Facing the challenges of RMS development
The Alliance will have to meet the challenges of new technologies, from supply chain and financing to skills and waste management. All these aspects need to be integrated into the Alliance’s work to ensure that SMRs leave a significant footprint within the next decade.
Commitment and collaboration
Interest in the Alliance is already high, with over 300 applications received from a wide range of entities. Collaboration with international allies such as the UK, USA and South Korea is also envisaged to advance the development of SMRs in Europe.
Next steps
After this first General Meeting, the Alliance will be up and running. Next steps include the implementation of technology roadmaps by the fourth quarter of this year and a strategic action plan for the first quarter of next year. The diversity of opinions on nuclear energy among member states will be respected, with each country determining its own energy mix.
EU support for SMR
The EU is supporting research and development activities on SMRs as part of the Euratom research and training program (2021-2025). This program focuses on nuclear safety, security, radiation protection and radioactive waste management, as well as the development of nuclear-related skills. The Commission launched a European SMR Industrial Alliance in February 2024 to ensure the successful deployment of the first SMR projects by the early 2030s and position Europe in global competition.
