By: Türkiye today

Türkiye is strategically advancing its energy security and sustainability goals by developing small modular reactor (SMR) technology as a flexible alternative to conventional large-scale nuclear plants. According to experts at the International Association for Energy Economics (IAEE) Middle East and Central Asia Conference in Antalya, Türkiye's investment in SMRs could strengthen its energy independence and position it as a leader in nuclear innovation.

SMRs offer several advantages over traditional nuclear facilities, including lower per-unit capital costs, enhanced safety systems, scalability, and the ability to be deployed directly at industrial sites—eliminating transmission losses. Dr. Adnan Shihab-Eldin of the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies noted that Türkiye has demonstrated foresight by taking an early lead in SMR development, positioning itself to attract competitive offers and build technical capacity.

Umit Herguner, senior partner at Herguner Bilgen Ucer Law Partnership, emphasized that SMRs can address renewable energy intermittency issues while meeting the high energy demands of heavy industries such as steel, aluminum, and cement. By generating power locally, SMRs also help Türkiye comply with the EU Green Deal, ensuring market access without facing environmental sanctions.

With projects reportedly underway, including a 40 MW initiative led by defense firm Baykar, SMRs are emerging as a central component of Türkiye's long-term energy strategy, aiming for up to 20 GW of nuclear capacity by 2050.