Dutch start-up Thorizon is planning to build its first commercial molten salt reactor in Zeeland, aiming to have it operational by 2034. The Amsterdam-based company has signed an agreement with eight partners, including provincial governments and investors, to bring the project to life.
In a molten salt reactor, liquid salt acts as both the fuel and the coolant. CEO Kiki Lauwers explains that this method is relatively safe compared to traditional nuclear reactors. A major benefit of this technology is that it can repurpose existing nuclear waste to generate power.
The project, named Thorizon One, is expected to be the first of its kind in Europe. Once connected to the National Grid in 2034, it is designed to provide enough energy to power 250,000 households. Key players in the energy sector, such as the operator of the Borssele nuclear plant and the research institute NRG Pallas, are already involved in the development.
The road to completion starts next year with the construction of a test facility, followed by a demonstration project in North Holland. While the initial demo will be the size of a large fridge, the final reactor in Zeeland will eventually cover an area the size of three to four football pitches.
So far, Thorizon has raised tens of millions of euros from investors and regional authorities. However, the company estimates that building the full-scale commercial reactor will require a total investment of more than €500 million.
@anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
