Finland approves ‘world’s simplest’ nuclear reactor concept for safety

Finland’s Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) has approved the concept assessment of Steady Energy’s LDR-50 small modular reactor (SMR), deeming it fit to generate nuclear energy and meet Finland’s nuclear safety requirements. Although not legally required, Steady Energy requested this assessment to align with anticipated future regulations. The approval supports the company’s development timeline and plans to build a full-scale pilot plant inside a former coal-fired power station in Helsinki, which will demonstrate key safety features without using nuclear fuel. An international regulatory review will follow, leveraging STUK’s findings, as Steady Energy expands its agreements for 15 reactors in Finland and plans growth into Sweden and the Baltics. The LDR-50 reactor is distinct from typical SMRs as it produces only heat, not electricity, generating up to 50 MW of thermal power at 150°C. This heat can be used for district heating, industrial steam, and desalination, with a simplified pressurized light water reactor