Nano Nuclear Energy, a US-based nuclear firm, is advancing its plans to deploy microreactors in the United Arab Emirates through a partnership with EHC Investment, a subsidiary of the UAE's International Holding Company. This collaboration, initially established in late February, aims to diversify the UAE's energy portfolio away from hydrocarbons and provide carbon-free power for critical infrastructure, including data centers and industrial facilities. The company's KRONOS micro modular reactor (MMR), a 45 MW thermal and 15 MW electrical high-temperature gas-cooled reactor, is designed for water-restricted environments and can be transported by road, making it suitable for the Gulf region.
While the initial rollout faced delays due to the Iran war, Nano Nuclear is now preparing to send teams to the UAE later this year for site selection and feasibility studies. The company's CEO, James Walker, highlighted the significant potential demand from the Gulf market, particularly given Abu Dhabi's substantial investments in artificial intelligence and data centers, which require vast amounts of energy. Nano Nuclear is also in early-stage discussions regarding potential investment from an entity linked to UAE National Security Adviser Sheikh Tahnoon Bin Zayed, which could accelerate the company's growth and potentially lead to a dual listing in Abu Dhabi.
Jay Yu, founder and president of Nano Nuclear, emphasized that this partnership is an important first step for the company in the Gulf region, aligning with its global vision for modular, scalable, and reliable advanced nuclear energy technologies. The company is actively exploring opportunities to support national and regional clean energy objectives and establish a nuclear supply chain in the UAE. Nano Nuclear's first reactor in the US state of Illinois is expected to begin producing power in 2030, and its KRONOS MMR is currently undergoing the US licensing process.
