A new collaboration between Türkiye and Danish nuclear technology firm Copenhagen Atomics aims to harness Türkiye’s thorium resources for next-generation nuclear technology. This partnership, formalized through a memorandum of understanding with the Türkiye Energy, Nuclear and Mineral Research Agency (TENMAK), centers on advancing thorium technologies and producing thorium compounds domestically for advanced nuclear reactors. The initiative underscores Türkiye’s intention to leverage its natural resources to foster innovation in nuclear energy.
The collaboration is set to focus on research and development as well as the design of projects that will enable the production of nuclear-grade thorium compounds within Türkiye. One of the primary applications of these compounds is in molten salt reactors, which are part of the emerging field of fourth-generation nuclear technology. By involving Turkish technology companies, industrial firms, and researchers, the partnership aims to elevate the country’s status in the global nuclear technology landscape through the development of high-value nuclear technologies.
Copenhagen Atomics is known for its innovative “Onion Core” modular concept in molten salt reactor technology. This agreement will allow the company to evaluate its technology in the context of Türkiye’s existing research infrastructure, workforce, and industrial capabilities. For Türkiye, thorium presents a strategic opportunity to lessen its reliance on imported nuclear fuel, aligning with its broader energy objectives that include expanding nuclear power alongside renewable energy sources.
With an ambitious target of achieving 15 gigawatts of conventional nuclear capacity and an additional 5 GW from small modular reactors by 2050, Türkiye is actively pursuing a diverse energy portfolio. The country’s inaugural nuclear power facility, Akkuyu, is on track to house four reactors, collectively offering 4,800 MW of capacity. As part of this broader vision, Türkiye is also eyeing the integration of small modular reactors to complement its energy mix.
Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar has emphasized the significance of this collaboration, noting that Copenhagen Atomics’ thorium-based technology aligns well with Türkiye’s resource abundance. He expressed optimism that the joint efforts could eventually yield commercially viable nuclear technologies, potentially transforming Türkiye into a leader in the field. As the nation continues to explore sustainable energy solutions, this partnership highlights a forward-thinking approach to energy security and technological advancement.