Nano Nuclear Energy, a US-based nuclear energy startup, is actively working to revive its partnership with the UAE to deploy micro modular reactors (MMRs) in the Gulf nation. This initiative, delayed by the Iran conflict, aims to establish new power sources for the UAE's burgeoning data centers and remote oil and gas facilities, aligning with the country's goal to become an AI hub and reduce reliance on hydrocarbons. The company signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with EHC Investment, a subsidiary of the Sheikh Tahnoon-chaired International Holding Company, in late February. This agreement committed Nano Nuclear to bring its KRONOS MMR technology to the UAE, with plans to begin site selection and feasibility studies later this year.
The KRONOS MMR is a 45 MW thermal, 15 MW electrical high-temperature gas-cooled reactor that uses TRISO fuel and has a sealed, transportable core. Nano Nuclear emphasizes that its MMR operates without water, requires no electrical grid connection, and can be transported by road for on-site assembly, with the capability to combine multiple units for gigawatt-level power. This technology is seen as complementary to the UAE's existing Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, which already supplies about 25% of the nation's electricity, by offering flexible, decentralized power for specialized loads and off-grid applications.
Beyond the initial MoU, Nano Nuclear is in early-stage discussions for potential investment from a firm linked to UAE National Security Adviser Sheikh Tahnoon Bin Zayed. These talks also include the possibility of dual listing Nano Nuclear in Abu Dhabi, which could accelerate its growth, especially if the UAE commissions the company to build a power plant. The demand from the Gulf market is expected to be substantial, and the company has also held preliminary discussions with the Saudi government regarding SMR deployment. Nano Nuclear's first reactor in Illinois is slated to produce power by 2030, and the firm currently holds a market capitalization of about $1 billion in the US.
The collaboration with EHC Investment involves evaluating regional market opportunities, assessing pathways for establishing a nuclear supply chain, and identifying potential commercial agreements and end-users, such as industrial facilities and data centers. EHC views MMRs as a transformative solution for delivering reliable, carbon-free power, supporting the UAE's clean energy and advanced technology ambitions. While the MoU is an exploratory step, the long-term success will depend on regulatory approvals, supply chain development, workforce training, and economic competitiveness against other clean energy solutions.
