Outokumpu has been investigating the opportunity to enhance low-carbon energy availability with emerging nuclear technology. As part of this work, the company has conducted a feasibility study to evaluate the possibility to build a small modular reactor (SMR) near the company’s major stainless steel plant in Tornio, Finland. The study has been successfully completed, confirming the project’s feasibility with no significant obstacles to building an SMR. Outokumpu is now seeking external parties that would be interested in investing in the project and developing it further independently.
The feasibility study included the investigation of possible technical solutions and legislative implications as well as environmental impacts on the identified location surrounding the Outokumpu Tornio site in Finland. The study showed that sufficient technical readiness in SMR reactor technology exists already, and the Tornio region offers further advantages for a potential SMR project such as the availability of sea cooling water due to colder climate. Furthermore, Finnish nuclear legislation is undergoing changes which are expected to support development opportunities for nuclear power in the country.
