Rwanda inks deal for set up of first dual fluid demonstration nuclear reactor

Rwanda has set the stage for a groundbreaking project in the field of nuclear energy with the agreement signed with Dual Fluid Energy Inc. The Canadian-German nuclear technology company is set to collaborate with Rwanda on the development of a test dual fluid nuclear reactor, making it the first nuclear startup to introduce new technology to the African continent. In an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa, Dr. Bjorn Peters, Chief Financial Officer and Co-Founder of Dual Fluid Energy Inc., shed light on the innovative project and its potential impact. The upcoming reactor, which is the smallest of its kind and will have a thermal power output of up to 1000 kilowatts, is primarily aimed at achieving specific development goals. While the reactor will not be used for energy production, it will serve as a vital demonstration project to showcase the capabilities of the technology. The project will be hosted at a research center set to be constructed near Nyamata in the south of Rwanda. This research center will not only focus on energy production but also explore various medical applications of nuclear technology. The core innovation of the project revolves around the use of dual fluids, namely liquid metallic uranium or other fuels and liquid lead, to achieve high energy density and temperature. The system, designed with a complex network of pipes, allows for efficient energy production and self-control of the nuclear fission reaction. The ability of the reactor to self-regulate and mitigate risks is a key feature that sets it apart from conventional nuclear reactors. Dr. Peters expressed confidence in the safety and operational simplicity of the technology, emphasizing the ease of maintenance and operation. The ultimate goal of Dual Fluid Energy Inc. is to establish a production facility for nuclear reactors with an output of 300 megawatt electric, with plans to target the African market for widespread adoption. The company aims to leverage Rwanda's conducive environment for innovation and regulatory support to expedite the development process. The presence of skilled personnel at the Rwanda Atomic Energy Board adds to the project's viability and accelerates the timeline for launching the first-of-its-kind reactor. The project timeline indicates that the criticality demonstration experiment is projected to commence by the first quarter of 2026. Following this phase, a two-year period will be dedicated to further measurement and development before moving towards the construction of the first reactor, expected to be operational by 2029 or 2030. The subsequent establishment of a production facility is estimated to be completed by 2032 or 2033. Dr. Peters highlighted the importance of nuclear energy in Africa's transition to cleaner, more reliable sources of power. With the limitations of fossil fuels and renewable energy sources in the region, nuclear energy emerges as a viable option to meet the growing energy demands of developing economies. The enthusiasm and involvement of government representatives in energy summits across Africa signify a shifting focus towards sustainable and efficient energy solutions. The development of nuclear energy infrastructure in Rwanda heralds a new chapter in Africa's energy landscape, offering potential for economic growth and technological advancement.