Edition 28: Nuclear Pulse

Welcome to this week’s edition of Nuclear Pulse - your trusted snapshot of what’s shaping the future of nuclear energy. From global investments and breakthrough technologies to shifting policies and community perspectives, this newsletter distils the week’s most important developments into five essential sections:

1. Top Global Nuclear Developments – The biggest headlines and decisions from around the world.
2. Poll of the Week Results – A pulse check on where experts and the wider public stand on the industry’s key debates.
3. Q&A from the Audience – Pressing questions addressed with clarity and insight.
4. Plant Watch – A deep dive into an iconic nuclear facility and its real-world impact.
5. Engagement Question – A space for conversation, reflection, and bold ideas from the community.

Whether it’s business development, technology, or a passion for clean energy, this edition brings the insight and inspiration needed to stay informed - and one step ahead.

1. Top Global Nuclear Developments

United Kingdom

• Energy Secretary Ed Miliband signs the final investment decision for Sizewell C in Suffolk- a £38B project with the government as the largest shareholder, alongside EDF, Centrica, La Caisse & Amber Infrastructure.
• First of four 520-tonne steam generators installed at Hinkley Point C’s Unit 1.

Hinkley Point Unit 1 Steam Generator installation

France & Belgium

• Energy ministers sign declaration of intent for deeper nuclear collaboration.
• Comes as Belgium reverses its nuclear phase-out stance.

France-Belgium nuclear cooperation

United Arab Emirates

• ENEC and Hyundai Engineering & Construction to jointly explore global nuclear energy ventures.

Japan

• Kansai Electric to resume survey for reactor at existing Mihama site

Sri Lanka

• Identified five potential sites for first nuclear power plant

Sri Lanka site selection

Fusion

• Fusion Industry Association reports $2.64B in public/private funding over past 12 months.
• Cumulative investment into fusion startups climbs to $9.766B across 53 companies.

Innovation

• UK advances fusion component manufacturing with additive techniques.
• Robotic retrofitting milestone reached at Sellafield to improve glovebox safety.

2. Poll of the Week Result

Question: With growing interest in nuclear-powered vessels, what do you think is the biggest barrier to adoption in the shipping industry?

Current Results:

• Regulation & Standards – 45%
• Public Trust – 23%
• Tech Readiness & Cost – 24%
• Fuel & Supply Chain – 8%

There are still 2 days left to have your say! If you have already voted, thank you; if not, now’s your chance to weigh in and help shape the conversation around public trust in nuclear.

3. Q&A from the Audience

Q: Is fusion technology the future of nuclear energy, or should we continue investing in conventional reactors?

A: Fusion is promising but not yet commercially viable.

Conventional reactors:

• Provide proven, scalable low-carbon energy.
• Are deployable now to meet urgent climate goals.

Fusion’s $2.64B in recent funding shows momentum, but deployment timelines stretch into the 2030s–2040s. A balanced approach, investing in both, ensures near-term reliability and long-term innovation.

4. Plant Watch for the week

Tianwan Unit 7, China Completed cold hydrostatic testing - a major step toward commissioning.

Holtec Plant, USA Fuel loading approved after NRC clears key regulatory steps.

Kairos Power, USA Advanced reactor developer installs reactor pressure vessel at test facility.

5. Engagement Question

Which electricity procurement model do you think is best suited for powering AI data centres?

- Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)

- Direct via the grid

- Energy-as-a-service

- Co-location with a power plant

Share your thoughts - your insights help shape the conversation around the future of nuclear energy.

Thanks for exploring this week’s Nuclear Pulse. As the global energy landscape evolves, curiosity and engagement continue to drive progress.

• Cast a vote in the latest poll
• Share a thought on this week’s engagement question
• If something sparked a new idea - or a new question - feel free to reach out

Until next time, stay curious, stay bold, and stay tuned!

– Ruan Steyn, Author, Nuclear Pulse