Core Insights - NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. has acquired a 2.75-acre facility in Oak Brook, Illinois, for $3.5 million to support the development of its KRONOS MMR Microreactor Energy System in collaboration with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign [1][2][11] - The facility will house up to 60 nuclear engineers and researchers, focusing on component construction and testing for the KRONOS MMR, which is a high technology readiness level microreactor [2][9] - The acquisition is part of a broader strategy to enhance collaboration with UIUC and advance regulatory licensing and construction efforts for the KRONOS MMR [3][10] Company Developments - The new facility will serve as a central hub for NANO Nuclear's microreactor project, marking the first commercial microreactor developed at a U.S. university [11] - NANO Nuclear has engaged AECOM for site-specific engineering and regulatory planning at UIUC, which includes environmental reviews and geological data collection for construction permit applications [3][10] - The facility is NANO Nuclear's third U.S. site and second dedicated to physical test work, complementing its existing facility in Westchester County, New York [8][9] Industry Context - Illinois generated 54.89% of its electricity from nuclear power in 2023 and accounted for 13% of the nation's total nuclear output, making it a strategic location for advanced nuclear technologies [9] - The establishment of the Oak Brook facility reflects NANO Nuclear's commitment to expanding its presence in the advanced nuclear energy sector across North America [10][11] - The company's focus on microreactor technologies aligns with the growing demand for clean energy solutions and innovative nuclear applications [12][13]