Oklo and KHNP link for deployment of fourth-generation SMR tech

US-based nuclear technology company Oklo has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with nuclear operation and construction company Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) for the development and worldwide deployment of its fourth-generation small module reactor (SMR) technology.

Oklo and KHNP will explore joint opportunities, aimed at advancing the standard design development and verification of the former’s planned Aurora powerhouse.

The partnership will also involve early-stage project development efforts such as manufacturability assessments, major equipment planning, supply chain development for balance of plant systems and constructability assessments.

Oklo is planning to deploy its 75 megawatts electrical Aurora powerhouse at the Idaho National Laboratory site. The company is currently navigating the licensing process.

The deployment of the Aurora 75MW fast reactor is expected by the end of 2027.

The company is engaged in a pre-application readiness assessment with the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission and plans to submit a combined licence application (COLA) in the second half of 2025.

The COLA process streamlines regulatory procedures, as it allows for the simultaneous granting of construction and operating licences.

Oklo is planning to submit additional applications to accommodate its expanding order pipeline, which now exceeds 14 GW.

The Aurora powerhouse is expected to require refuelling only once a decade, and possibly at even longer intervals, in contrast to conventional reactors that undergo core replacement every one to two years. It is therefore anticipated to incur lower costs, as reported by Reuters.

Oklo co-founder and CEO Jacob DeWitte stated: “We’ve recently completed site characterisation borehole drilling for our first commercial powerhouse and are preparing for construction, with commercialisation 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 commercialisation and the ability to build future powerhouses faster.”

KHNP president Jooho Whang stated: “We are striving to ensure Korea’s innovative SMRs achieve world-class competitiveness through continued technology development. In the rapidly evolving fourth-generation SMR market, where safety remains a top priority, close cooperation with global technology leaders is essential to secure early market entry.

“By combining the strengths of leading US SMR companies and KHNP, we anticipate powerful synergy in the design, construction, and operation of next-generation SMRs.”

In May 2025, US President Trump signed four nuclear energy-related executive orders to accelerate the testing of advanced nuclear reactor designs, the construction of new nuclear reactors at scale on federally owned land, and the building of a domestic nuclear industrial base.