The introduction of small modular reactors (SMRs) represents a key opportunity for Ukraine to strengthen its energy security and transition to carbon-free power generation, according to Artem Nekrasov, First Deputy Minister of Energy of Ukraine.
He made this statement during a meeting of the Verkhovna Rada Committee on Energy, Housing, and Utilities, where members of parliament presented a draft law outlining the principles for introducing SMRs in Ukraine.
“The Ministry of Energy supports the idea of introducing SMRs in Ukraine. We have already established an interdepartmental working group at the ministry that includes a broad range of stakeholders,” Nekrasov said. “In cooperation with our American partners, we are implementing two projects to explore the deployment of SMRs at Ukrainian thermal power plants and major energy-intensive enterprises. This is a promising direction for ensuring safe and carbon-free energy, and the Ministry is ready to actively contribute to developing the provisions of the draft law.”
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Under the Government’s Action Plan, an interdepartmental working group led by the Ministry of Energy is tasked with developing a comprehensive Action Plan for the implementation of small modular reactors (SMRs) in Ukraine.
The document will define the general principles, strategic objectives, priorities, and stages of SMR deployment, along with a detailed analysis of the technical, regulatory, and economic aspects necessary for their successful integration into the national energy system. The plan will provide an in-depth analysis of key aspects necessary for introducing SMRs in Ukraine, including:
- international experience and best global practices;
- potential risks;
- possible sites for locating modular nuclear power plants (MNPPs);
- engineering, social, and industrial infrastructure;
- available human resources and scientific potential;
- financial capacities and investment instruments.
One of the key elements of this analysis will be a review of the current legal framework and the preparation of specific legislative proposals to support SMR deployment.
To ensure a thorough and balanced approach, the interdepartmental working group includes not only experts from the Ministry of Energy and energy companies but also representatives of central executive bodies, the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, and other relevant institutions.
Small modular reactors are a promising yet relatively new technology still in the stage of global research and demonstration. Only a few countries have begun practical implementation. Therefore, for Ukraine, it is essential to carefully assess the economic viability, technical capabilities, spent fuel and radioactive waste management, and ensure the highest standards of nuclear and radiation safety. This is a large-scale and complex task that requires the participation of a broad range of scientists and experts.
In addition, Ukraine, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of State, is already implementing two projects under the FIRST (Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology) Program aimed at introducing SMRs.
The Phoenix Project focuses on transitioning Ukraine’s energy sector from coal-fired power generation to small modular reactors, supporting the country’s broader decarbonization and energy security goals.
The Hephaestus Project is designed to modernize Ukraine’s steel industry through the adoption of innovative solutions and safe SMR technologies, helping reduce emissions and increase the sector’s energy efficiency.
