Newcleo

Overview

Newcleo is an innovative nuclear energy company that was founded in 2021 with the aim of revolutionizing nuclear power through the development of small modular reactors (SMRs) using lead-cooled fast reactor (LFR) technology. Headquartered initially in London, the company has recently relocated its base to Paris to leverage better funding opportunities and align with European nuclear initiatives. Founded by Stefano Buono and Elisabeth Rizzotti, Newcleo has raised over €411.5 million to date to fund its endeavors in creating a sustainable nuclear power solution to mitigate nuclear waste issues. The company is primarily supported by private investments and focus on creating energy utilizing mixed-oxide (MOX) fuel.

Recent Developments

  • October 2024: Newcleo was selected by the European Commission for its SMR projects, which facilitates access to European funds. The company proposed an LFR that uses reprocessed nuclear waste as fuel, aimed at further collaborating with EU initiatives.
  • October 2024: Officially moved its headquarters from London to Paris to enhance its funding capabilities within Europe, having raised €135 million from new investors including Italian pension fund Inarcassa.
  • September 2024: Signed a collaboration agreement with Saipem to explore offshore applications of nuclear technology. This partnership includes feasibility studies on developing floating nuclear prototypes.
  • July 2024: Announced the completion of the preparatory stage for their SMR projects in France, aiming for first deployment by 2030.
  • June 2024: Emphasized a focus on locations near population centers for its reactors, following recent relaxation of UK regulations on nuclear developments.
  • April 2024: The Nuclear Industry Association applied for a justification decision on behalf of Newcleo's LFR technology from the UK government.

Company Information

AttributeInformation
Founding Date2021
HeadquartersParis, France
FoundersStefano Buono, Elisabeth Rizzotti
Revenue€950,000 (as of 2022)
ProfitsNot publicly disclosed
Key InvestorsBpifrance, Inarcassa
IndustryNuclear Energy
Number of EmployeesOver 800

Early History

Newcleo was established in 2021 with a vision of leveraging advanced reactor technology to address energy needs sustainably. Initially headquartered in London, the company quickly gained momentum by attracting significant investments from key European stakeholders. Newcleo's founders, namely Stefano Buono, who has a background in nuclear physics, and Elisabeth Rizzotti, have deep-rooted experience in the nuclear industry. The company quickly set its sights on researching and developing a LFR using MOX fuel - a process that uses reprocessed nuclear materials, and began engaging with partners like Orano for feasibility analyses.

Company Profile and Achievements

Newcleo aims to transform the nuclear sector by developing and deploying advanced SMRs powered by LFR technology. The company’s business model focuses on reducing nuclear waste through innovative reactor designs that utilize MOX fuel. Key achievements include:

  • Strategic Partnerships: Signed agreements with organizations such as Saipem and Orano to expedite reactor technology development.
  • Successful Fundraising: Raised over €411.5 million from European investors, marking a significant financial backing.
  • Relocation and Expansion: Transitioned headquarters to Paris, positioning itself to gain more from EU funding structures.
  • Prototyping & Feasibility: Developing a 30 MW lead-cooled fast reactor prototype set to be deployed by 2030, with plans for a larger unit by 2033.
  • Government Engagement: Actively involved in discussions with UK and European regulatory bodies to align on nuclear safety and deployment protocols.

Current Operations and Market Position

Newcleo operates across several European locations including Italy and France, focusing on creating a comprehensive supply chain for its SMR projects. It continues to grow its market presence by securing collaborative projects and funding aimed at commercial-scale reactor deployment by the 2030s. The move to Paris reflects Newcleo’s strategic aim to capitalize on European funding opportunities and to spearhead nuclear innovation in the region. Newcleo’s competitive edge lies in its novel use of MOX fuel, which turns nuclear waste management issues into energy opportunities.

Conclusion

Newcleo stands as a pioneering entity in the nuclear energy sector, focused on transforming waste management practices into sustainable energy solutions through cutting-edge LFR technology. With financial backing from European investors and strategic moves such as relocating to Paris, Newcleo is well-positioned to influence the nuclear sector significantly. As it continues to innovate and expand, Newcleo’s potential to make substantial advances in energy sustainability will likely contribute greatly to European nuclear energy goals and global environmental efforts.

References

  1. Advanced Modular Reactor Developer Newcleo Abandons UK As HQ Moves to Paris
  2. Italian Energy Start-Up Has a Blast with Plans for Nuclear Expansion Across UK
  3. Newcleo Raises €151 Million From New Investors, Moves to Paris
  4. Innovative Reactor Developer Newcleo Completes Preparatory Stage in France
  5. Saipem and Newcleo Sign First Agreement Between European Companies