Terra Innovatum and Conuar Partner to Advance Micro-Modular Nuclear Reactor Production in South America
Terra Innovatum and Conuar have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop critical components for the SOLO micro-modular nuclear reactor, marking a strategic expansion into Latin America's growing nuclear energy market.
Terra Innovatum Srl, a developer of micro-modular nuclear reactors, has signed a memorandum of understanding with Argentine nuclear component manufacturer Conuar for the supply of critical components for Terra Innovatum's SOLO micro-modular nuclear reactor. This partnership represents a significant step in establishing a global supply chain for small modular reactor technology while expanding into the Latin American energy market.
Under the agreement, Conuar will develop and supply critical cooling and fuel components for the industrial production of the SOLO reactor. The companies will conduct pilot programs to evaluate scope and pricing for Conuar to supply coolant tubs and plates, control rod mechanisms, fuel rods, and stainless steel and special alloy components. Additionally, they will collaborate to develop a supply chain hub and SOLO assembly lines to serve the South American market, potentially establishing a manufacturing and assembly hub in the region to increase production capabilities and better serve local customers.
Alessandro Petruzzi, CEO of Terra Innovatum, emphasized the strategic importance of this partnership, stating that Conuar's 40 years of expertise in fuel production and component manufacturing has been central to powering Latin America's nuclear sector. This collaboration not only strengthens SOLO's global supply chain but also marks a strategic entry into what Petruzzi called "one of the most important growth regions for the future of nuclear energy." The partnership positions both companies to scale SOLO production and accelerate deployment of clean, affordable, reliable modular power while providing radioisotopes at scale.
Rodolfo Kramer, CEO of Conuar, described the agreement as "a milestone in international cooperation for the development of advanced nuclear technologies." He noted that bringing together Terra Innovatum's innovative vision with Conuar's proven capabilities represents a unique opportunity to accelerate safe, clean, and sustainable energy solutions that will benefit future generations. Conuar, which has produced 100% of the nuclear fuel used by Argentina, brings specialized engineering, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and strict adherence to international standards to the partnership.
The SOLO micro-modular reactor, conceptualized in 2018 and engineered over six years, is designed to provide 1 MWe of power using readily available commercial off-the-shelf components. The reactor supports both LEU+ and HALEU fuel options and is anticipated to be available globally within the next three years. Its applications include CO2-free, behind-the-meter, and off-grid power solutions for data centers, remote communities, and industrial operations in sectors such as cement production, oil and gas, steel manufacturing, and mining. The modular design allows scaling to deliver up to 1GW or more of CO2-free power with minimal footprint.
This partnership underscores the growing importance of international collaboration in advancing nuclear energy technology and expanding access to clean energy solutions in emerging markets where infrastructure is limited or non-existent. More information about Terra Innovatum's technology can be found at https://www.terrainnovatum.com.