KEPCO KPS has signed a trilateral memorandum of understanding (MOU) with X-energy and DL E&C for the development of technology and business related to non-light water reactor-type fourth generation small modular reactors (SMRs).
Under this agreement, the three parties, including KEPCO KPS, will collaborate on jointly developing global projects utilizing X-energy’s fourth-generation SMR model currently under development, the “Xe-100,” aiming to take the lead in the global market.
In particular, KEPCO KPS, renowned for its world-class technical expertise in nuclear plant operation, commissioning maintenance, and preventive maintenance, will collaborate on developing standard operating and maintenance procedures for fourth-generation SMRs. This collaboration will also encompass commissioning and maintenance technology as well as maintenance engineer education and training programs, accelerating efforts to capture the global market.
As one of the global leading SMR developers, U.S.-based X-energy is recognized as a leading player in the field of fourth-generation SMRs, having pioneered the use of high-temperature helium gas as a new coolant. Currently, X-energy is spearheading the construction of the first SMR within an industrial zone in North America to supply both carbon-free electricity and high-temperature process heat in collaboration with the global chemical company Dow.
The flagship model, “Xe-100,” is characterized by its use of tennis-ball-sized nuclear fuel that remains stable even at temperatures of 1,800 degrees Celsius, enhancing stability. The aim is to achieve commercialization by 2029. Recognized for its stability and economic viability in the market, X-energy has not only secured US$1.2 billion in funding from the U.S. government but has also successfully attracted investment from the private sector.
DL E&C, which has extensive experience in various nuclear power projects, made a strategic investment of US$20 million in X-energy in January last year and is fostering SMRs as a future growth engine. Through this agreement, DL E&C expects to expand its SMR plant business and collaborate on technology development. In particular, the plan is to secure technological competitiveness across the entire life cycle of SMRs, including not only SMR EPC but also operations and maintenance.