Next-gen nuclear reactor with 968°F high-temp output advances with deal

The EAGLES Consortium and French company newcleo have partnered to develop the LEANDREA technology demonstrator, focusing on the EAGLES-300, a lead-cooled small modular reactor (SMR) designed entirely within the European scientific and industrial ecosystem. Scheduled for completion in 2034 at the Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN) in Mol, the EAGLES-300 aims to support Europe’s goals of energy sovereignty, responsible resource management, and reduced high-level nuclear waste. This reactor uses liquid lead coolant, enabling operation at high temperatures (520°C/968°F) and low pressures, with a power output of 300 MWe. Its design incorporates passive safety systems capable of maintaining safe operation for over 72 hours without human intervention, and it supports efficient fuel use and compatibility with a closed fuel cycle. The high-temperature output also allows for electricity generation and industrial applications like hydrogen production. The LEANDREA facility will serve both as a technology demonstrator for lead-co