These efforts are crucial in securing a construction permit from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).
The partnership is a key step toward securing a construction permit from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). AECOM will conduct technical feasibility studies, site assessments, and assist with permitting and licensing processes. These efforts are essential for preparing the groundwork for the KRONOS MMR, NANO Nuclear’s advanced microreactor design, to be installed at UIUC.
James Walker, CEO of NANO Nuclear, stated: “This milestone marks a pivotal step in NANO Nuclear’s development roadmap for the KRONOS MMR, our most advanced microreactor design. Our work at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign demonstrates our commitment to turning next-generation nuclear technology into real-world energy solutions. Building and operating one of the first licensed microreactors on a US university campus places NANO Nuclear at the forefront of the microreactor industry.”
The initiative is expected to enhance research and training opportunities at UIUC, positioning the university as a hub for advanced nuclear technology development. The KRONOS MMR aims to provide a reliable, innovative energy solution, contributing to the growing interest in microreactors for sustainable power generation.
Jay Yu, NANO Nuclear’s founder and executive chairman, said: “Our progress at UIUC is a critical signal to the market: we’re not just designing next-gen reactors, we’re moving forward efficiently with building them, testing them and preparing for regulatory licensing and real-world deployment. Once we receive the construction permit for the KRONOS MMR, we believe we will be firmly in the lead within the United States microreactor race, and we believe this agreement is a key inflexion point in our journey.”
In May 2025, NANO Nuclear completed a private placement, issuing 3.8 million shares of common stock at $27 per share, raising $105 million in gross proceeds. These funds support the company’s efforts to advance its microreactor technology and deployment plans.
The partnership with AECOM and the planned installation at UIUC underscore NANO Nuclear’s commitment to pioneering microreactor technology. By conducting thorough environmental and technical assessments, the company aims to meet regulatory requirements and establish a model for future microreactor projects. This initiative positions NANO Nuclear as a leader in the U.S. microreactor sector, contributing to the development of clean, innovative energy solutions.
