NANO Nuclear Energy Extends Relationship with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign to Construct and Operate the First KRONOS MMR Energy System on U.S. University Land

Core Insights - NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign to collaborate on the development, construction, and operation of its KRONOS MMR™ microreactor on campus, marking a significant step in advancing nuclear energy technology in the U.S. [1][2][10] Company and Project Overview - The MOU extends the existing relationship between NANO Nuclear and the University of Illinois, building on a prior research agreement that supports the design and regulatory licensing of the KRONOS MMR™ prototype [2][3]. - The primary objective of the project is to deploy the KRONOS MMR™ microreactor safely and efficiently, aligning with Illinois' energy strategy and carbon-reduction targets as outlined in the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) [3][4]. Collaboration and Operational Structure - NANO Nuclear and the University of Illinois will establish joint project and operations steering committees to oversee technical coordination, safety compliance, and long-term operational planning [5]. - The University of Illinois will support regulatory engagements with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the State of Illinois, while NANO Nuclear will handle project execution, including engineering, site preparation, and reactor system installation [6][12]. Technological and Educational Impact - Upon completion, the University of Illinois will own and operate the first advanced microreactor on a U.S. university campus, collecting operational data to enhance research and educational programs [9]. - The KRONOS MMR™ is a high-temperature, gas-cooled microreactor designed for safety and reliability, with a modular architecture that allows for flexible deployment and scalable power output [11]. Future Growth and Development - NANO Nuclear plans to expand its workforce in Illinois, adding dozens of engineers to its Oak Brook facility, which serves as the development hub for the KRONOS MMR™ [12]. - The collaboration with the University of Illinois is expected to generate real-world operational data that will refine future deployment strategies and support regulatory processes [13].