Oklo, a company specialising in advanced nuclear technology, has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP). The two companies agreed to collaborate on the development and global deployment of Oklo’s advanced nuclear technology.
Particularly, the agreement outlines a cooperation framework aimed at advancing the design and verification of Oklo’s Aurora powerhouse.
The MoU specifies that KHNP and Oklo will explore joint efforts to progress the standard design of the Aurora powerhouse. Both parties will focus on early-stage project development, including manufacturability assessments, planning for major equipment, supply chain development for balance of plant systems, and constructability assessments.
Oklo has plans to deploy its 75MWe Aurora powerhouse at the Idaho National Laboratory site and is currently navigating the licencing process. The company is in discussions with the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission through a Pre-Application Readiness Assessment and plans to submit a formal Combined License Application (COLA) later this year. The COLA process, which allows for simultaneous granting of construction and operating licenses, aims to streamline the overall licensing procedure. Oklo intends to file additional applications to support a growing order pipeline exceeding 14 GW.
Oklo co-founder and CEO Jacob DeWitte said: “We’ve recently completed site characterisation borehole drilling for our first commercial powerhouse and are preparing for construction, with commercialization as a top priority.
“Partnering with KHNP, one of the most accomplished nuclear builders in the world, who have been building nuclear power plants continuously since 1971, offers meaningful opportunities to align on key execution factors such as manufacturability, constructability, and supply chain development. Their experience in delivering projects at scale can complement our efforts and help us move more efficiently toward commercialization and the ability to build future powerhouses faster.”
KHNP CEO Whang Ju-ho stated: “KHNP is focusing on developing its innovative domestic advanced nuclear technology, the i-SMR, to achieve world-class competitiveness. In addition to enhancing safety, successful entry into the advanced nuclear market requires cooperation with leading technology firms. By combining the strengths of KHNP and Oklo, we expect to create strong synergy in the design, construction, and operation of advanced nuclear technology.”
