US-Türkiye Cooperation: A Strategic Shift in the Global Nuclear Landscape?
Türkiye's ambitious plan to increase its nuclear energy capacity marks a significant development in its national energy strategy. With a target of generating 20 GW from nuclear power by 2050, the Turkish government is integrating both traditional nuclear power plants and small modular reactors (SMRs) into its energy portfolio. This strategic move is bolstered by ongoing discussions with the United States, aiming to enhance energy security and diversify electricity production.
Türkiye-US Cooperation on Nuclear Power Plants
Türkiye's ongoing discussions with the US signify a pivotal move towards achieving its nuclear energy objectives. These talks encompass both large-scale nuclear power plants and SMRs. The US has demonstrated serious interest in Türkiye’s goals, indicating a robust partnership that could involve existing power plants or entirely new projects.
Yusuf Ceylan, Director General of Nuclear Technical Support Company (NÜTED), has highlighted the strategic importance of these negotiations. He stated, "The US is showing serious interest in Türkiye's goal of increasing its nuclear energy capacity and building new power plants. We can consider the areas of existing power plants or new power plants. We are negotiating with the USA for both large-scale power plants and small modular reactors. This is a statement of intent.”
U.S. Ambassador to Türkiye Jeff Flake emphasized efforts to reduce Türkiye's dependency on Russia, stating, "We're (US) working with them to try to lessen their dependency in whatever ways we can." During the seventh meeting of the U.-Türkiye Strategic Mechanism, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan reiterated the importance of civil nuclear energy in advancing shared objectives and addressing global challenges.
Along with this, Justin Friedman, Senior Advisor for Nuclear Energy at the US State Department, pointed to the increasing global demand for SMRs and the productive negotiations between Türkiye and the US. He noted significant interest from US companies in the Turkish market, emphasizing the potential benefits of this collaboration for both nations. The US Export-Import Bank (EXIM) has also introduced financing options to support SMR development, further solidifying the foundation for US-Türkiye cooperation.
Potential for a Strategic Shift in the Global Nuclear Landscape
The potential collaboration between the US and Türkiye in nuclear energy could lead to a strategic shift in the global nuclear landscape. Several factors contribute to this potential shift:
It could diversify Türkiye's partnerships in its nuclear program, particularly complementing the Akkuyu project. This diversification may balance influence in the region and contribute to a more competitive global nuclear market.
The US could re-establish itself in a growing nuclear market, fostering a competitive environment and promoting technological advancements alongside other major players.
This partnership could serve as a model for US collaboration with other countries seeking to diversify their nuclear partnerships.
Türkiye’s position at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East enhances its role as a regional energy hub, and developing nuclear capabilities would strengthen its influence in regional energy dynamics.
Cooperation with the US allows Türkiye to access cutting-edge nuclear technology, safety protocols, and operational expertise.
Türkiye’s adoption of advanced reactors could set a precedent for other nations, influencing reactor designs and safety standards globally.
Türkiye's Potential SMR Market
Türkiye’s nuclear power target of 20 GW by 2050 includes a specific goal of 5 GW from Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). The SMR market in Türkiye is projected to reach $10-30 billion by 2050, underscoring the country's strong commitment to advanced nuclear energy technologies. This presents significant opportunities for global SMR vendors, particularly for US companies, given the ongoing dialogues between the US and Türkiye. US firms are at the forefront of SMR development, with several promising designs in various stages of progress, creating a favorable environment for their entry into the Turkish market.
Türkiye Nuclear Energy Company (TÜNAŞ) has been designated the the Turkish government as the future owner and operator of new build NPP’s in Türkiye in SMRs. TÜNAŞ will host the Türkiye Nuclear Business Platform in Adana this October and will provide further insights on future SMR developments in Türkiye.
