A new chapter is beginning in Türkiye’s energy transformation as the country sets its sights on Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology — a next-generation approach that is smaller, safer, cleaner, and more flexible than traditional nuclear power plants. Seen as a cornerstone of Türkiye’s long-term energy security strategy, the SMR initiative was first announced by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in March 2025. During his statement, Erdoğan revealed plans to establish a nuclear technopark and confirmed that Türkiye would develop its own modular nuclear reactors.

According to Prof. Dr. Gürkan Kumbaroğlu of Boğaziçi University, Türkiye’s SMR project represents a “historic step” in the country’s technological journey. He explains that SMRs can provide up to 300 MW of installed power, roughly one-third of a conventional reactor’s capacity. Their modular design allows scalability — additional reactor modules can be integrated as demand increases. Beyond efficiency, these systems offer faster construction, easier transport and assembly, and significantly reduced costs, while maintaining enhanced safety standards.

Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar recently emphasized Türkiye’s growing electricity demand, which is expected to triple within 30 years. He reaffirmed Türkiye’s goal to commission 7 GW of nuclear energy by 2035, and potentially 20 GW by 2050, noting that SMRs will play a critical role in achieving that vision. Experts describe this effort as Türkiye’s “nuclear renaissance.”

Notably, Türkiye’s defense industry companies are expected to contribute to this process by leveraging expertise in materials engineering, cybersecurity, control systems, and autonomous technologies — all of which are vital to SMR development and integration. The experience gained from the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant project is also seen as a strong foundation for this next phase of nuclear innovation.

The global importance of SMRs continues to grow, with 15 countries currently working on 51 different SMR designs. Türkiye’s involvement positions it among nations preparing for the next generation of sustainable nuclear solutions. Additionally, the International Association for Energy Economics (IAEE) will host its Middle East and Central Asia Conference in Antalya this December, where experts from around the world will discuss the role of SMRs and advanced energy technologies in global energy security.

If Türkiye successfully realizes domestic SMR production, it will not only secure its energy independence, but also open the door to exporting high-value, next-generation nuclear technologies — marking a new era for the country’s energy, defense, and high-tech industries.