Oklo, a U.S.-based advanced nuclear technology company, has partnered with Blykalla, a Swedish startup. Collectively, they seek to accelerate the development of cutting-edge, competitively-located nuclear reactors. This collaboration is an example of how sharing technology and coordinating supply chains is critically important. By sharing regulatory expertise, both companies are now more equipped than ever to tackle the growing demand for clean energy technologies.
Further, the partnership’s goal is to establish a vertically integrated, cross-border electric vehicle supply chain. Additionally, Oklo would provide many components directly to Blykalla. At the same time, both companies will share information regarding materials, components, and sourcing from the non-nuclear supply chain. This program is so critical as the world grapples with energy needs like never before.
Details of the Partnership
Oklo has pledged $5 million to Blykalla’s next seed round and will co-lead that investment. Like any good partnership, both firms understand that success lies in working together. Blykalla SEALER, a small modular reactor that Blykalla is touting as a groundbreaking reactor concept. This “passively safe, highly compact” 55MW lead-cooled fast reactor is based on more than 25 years of R&D. At the same time, Oklo is actively continuing the development of its sodium-cooled fast reactor, with capacities up to 75MW.
This collaboration seeks to not only increase efficiencies across the construction lifecycle but to place a greater emphasis on safety during the design of new reactors. By combining their complementary expertise, Oklo and Blykalla hope to dramatically speed up the deployment of advanced reactors in their markets.
“By teaming up on suppliers, materials data and licensing insights, we can shorten critical paths to deployment and stay focused on delivering reliable, clean power to customers, while recognizing that we have more to gain from cooperating than from competing.” – Source unspecified
Goals and Vision
Together, GE and Westinghouse embody a pragmatic and industrial focus on bringing advanced fission technology to market. Jacob Stedman, CEO of Blykalla, highlighted the synergy between the two organizations:
“Oklo and Blykalla share a practical, industrial approach to bringing advanced fission to market.” – Jacob Stedman
Faith in this partnership extends far beyond a typical business arrangement. It symbolizes our collective determination to meet the growing global energy needs sustainably and responsibly. Jacob DeWitte, Co-founder and CEO of Oklo commented that this agreement adds further momentum to the advanced reactor ecosystem.
“This partnership strengthens the growing advanced reactor ecosystem in the face of unprecedented global demand for power.” – Jacob DeWitte
Implications for the Nuclear Industry
The partnership between Oklo and Blykalla could signal a better way for companies to pair up on the development of advanced nuclear technologies. They’re collaborating to share resources and expertise. This targeted effort has the potential to prepare our nation with a more reliable, dynamic, and sustainable supply chain.
The United States and Sweden are currently engaged in intensive mutual transfer of licensing best practices. This level of collaboration demonstrates their keen desire to encourage and support international cooperation in the nuclear arena. Beyond operational exchanges and collaborative learning opportunities, this partnership would have the power to shape regulatory frameworks and operational standards in both regions.