Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company ended fiscal 2025 with cash and cash equivalents of $203.3 million, an increase of approximately $175 million from the end of fiscal 2024, primarily driven by successful equity capital raises [25] - Fiscal 2025 loss from operations was $46.2 million, an increase from the previous year due to higher general and administrative expenses and R&D expenses [26] - The net cash used in operating activities increased to $19.6 million, while net cash used in investing activities rose to $17.5 million, reflecting increased R&D and facility acquisitions [27] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company made significant progress in advancing the KRONOS MMR Energy System, including securing strategic collaborations and achieving important NRC milestones [10] - The acquisition of Global First Power, rebranded as True North Nuclear, marked progress in resuming licensing activities in Canada [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The demand for reliable baseload power is projected to increase significantly, with electricity usage expected to grow by 5%-6% annually over the next five years, driven largely by AI data centers [5][6] - There is a growing global commitment to triple nuclear capacity by 2050, indicating a long-term trend in nuclear energy growth [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to position itself at the center of a global nuclear renaissance, focusing on the development of micro-reactors to meet the increasing demand for clean energy [4] - The strategy includes vertical integration to de-risk the nuclear fuel supply chain, with a focus on enrichment and conversion capabilities [23][24] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted the bipartisan policy support for nuclear energy in the U.S. and the favorable regulatory environment as key drivers for future growth [9] - The company expects to submit a construction permit application for the U of I project in Q1 2026, with a turnaround time from the NRC anticipated to be less than 12 months [32] Other Important Information - The company raised over $600 million since its May 2024 IPO, indicating strong institutional support and financial health [11] - The KRONOS MMR is designed to provide off-grid or behind-the-meter power, addressing the constraints faced by large energy users [15][20] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on the U of I site and NRC permit application timeline - Management confirmed that the drilling was completed on schedule and the construction permit application is on track for Q1 next year, with an expected turnaround time from the NRC of less than 12 months [31][32] Question: Vertical integration strategy objectives for 2026 - The company aims to centralize reactor core manufacturing while recognizing the need for specialized components that may require external partnerships [35][36] Question: Progress on the Canadian project and licensing - The company is focused on site selection and expects to announce the site in the first half of next year, with plans to expedite the licensing process by leveraging previous work done at the site [45][46] Question: Scope of the AFWERX direct-to-phase two project - The AFWERX program aims to provide self-sufficient power solutions for military bases, with potential for mass production of reactor systems once the program advances [48][50] Question: State-level licensing opportunities - Management discussed the potential for states to take over licensing for certain facilities, which could expedite the process and reduce the NRC's workload [54][57] Question: Differences between the test reactor at UIUC and commercial reactors - The UIUC reactor will be a full-scale system, closely matching the commercial reactor design, with minor optimizations expected for commercial units [58][59]
Nano Nuclear Energy Inc.(NNE) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript