2023-09-27
Mini nuclear reactors take Sweden into the future
New nuclear power in a mini format within just a few years - that's how Kärnfull Next wants to secure the electricity supply and save the climate. With both a Swedish community builder and a Danish climate fund behind them, the Swedish clean-tech company has attracted attention right from the start.
“We are a project development company in the new era of nuclear power, focusing on smaller, safer reactors that have transitioned from being large construction projects to becoming a more standardized product,” says Christian Sjölander, CEO and co-founder of Kärnfull Next.
In the latest episode of the Digital Influencer Podcast, Christian Sjölander reveals a bold vision with global ambitions. He discusses the development of compact prefab reactors that will be ready to operate within a few years, as well as Nyköping’s role as the cradle of this nuclear renaissance. Furthermore, Sjölander reveals the location of Sweden’s very own “Atomic Beach,” namely the Byggningssand beach in Nyköping municipality.
He and co-founder John Ahlberg felt a strong desire to make a significant and lasting impact, with the goal of reindustrializing Sweden. This vision differs somewhat from the prevailing attitude towards nuclear power.
“Now we see that almost 90 percent of Swedes either want to keep or expand nuclear power,” says Christian Sjölander.
The crucial difference lies in the transition from large-scale reactors like Forsmark to smaller modular reactors, he believes.
“Above all, it has shifted from being a construction site – a masterpiece built on-site with 9,000 people spending eight years in the mud – to something more product-oriented, similar to prefab houses,” explains Christian Sjölander.
Sweden is now on the verge of constructing its first small-scale nuclear power plant.
“We have previously stated that we aim to have the first reactor operational in Sweden in the early 2030s. We still hold to that plan, but the timeline depends not only on us. Authorities, the government, and local politicians must also play their role as enablers,” emphasizes Christian Sjölander.
Some legislative changes are necessary to kickstart this initiative.
“Currently, we have a law that allows only ten reactors in operation at three dedicated sites in Sweden. This somewhat draconian legislation is outdated by now and requires significant updating. We intend to co-locate our small modular reactors with industries, and these three designated sites are not where the industries are located,” says Christian Sjölander.
As Kärnfull Next continues with its ambitious plans, they hope to pave the way for a sustainable, innovative, and environmentally friendly energy future in Sweden and beyond.
