Newcleo, a rapidly developing player in the nuclear energy sector, signed a strategic partnership agreement with NextChem. This partnership allows each company to leverage their respective expertise. Jointly, we look forward to developing new intellectual property and collaborating as a test bed for the emerging energy transition combat space. The Walker–Mabey partnership will target developing and promoting new, commercially-scaled nuclear plants that are consistent with international sustainability objectives.
Newcleo intends to reach a final investment decision for its first commercial plant by 2029. The company’s long-term goal is to industrialize carbon-neutral chemistry models that prioritize safety, reliability and supply of a competitive energy to the world. This hugely ambitious project is based on Newcleo’s proprietary advanced modular reactor (AMR) technology. At a blistering scale of 200 megawatts electrical (MWe), this technology is truly charting new territory.
Focus on Advanced Modular Reactor Technology
With the market demand for clean energy alternatives continuously expanding, Newcleo’s AMR technology aims to provide affordable energy whilst addressing sustainability needs. The company intends to develop a non-nuclear precursor prototype of the AMR in Italy by 2026. This move is a testament to its robust commitment to accelerating innovation in the nuclear sector. The first of these planned reactors are now not expected to become operational until 2031, in France.
This expanded collaboration with NextChem is a big step toward creating innovative, consumer-oriented solutions made specifically for the unique nuclear industry. Newcleo aims to combine its lead-fast reactors (LFRs) with Danieli’s advanced steelmaking technology. This new partnership follows their signing of a memorandum of understanding back in March 2025. This integration highlights Newcleo’s ambitious vision of transforming the nuclear landscape and responds to pressing needs felt by other industries.
“We are very happy to join forces with Newcleo to set a new standard in the energy transition arena. With Nextcleo, we start a new path to industrialise carbon-neutral chemistry models based on safe, reliable and competitive energy supply.” – Alessandro Bernini, Maire CEO.
Strategic Agreements and Future Investments
In return, Newcleo will provide NextChem with a minority, non-controlling equity interest in the venture. This broad agreement has a seven-year lock-up period built in, though. After this initial time period, pre-emption rights will come into play. This alignment of interests goes a long way towards making sure both parties are fully committed to the success of the project. On top of that, Tecnimont, another Maire company, will receive preferred partner status for project delivery with Newcleo.
Newcleo and NextChem project to complete their deal in the second half of 2025. This timeline is subject to regulatory approvals as with all such transactions, including passing muster with Italy’s Golden Power regulations. This regulatory approval is essential for making sure that the collaboration between these two organizations is in accordance with national interests and security issues.
Aiming for a Sustainable Future
Both Newcleo and NextChem are dedicated to confronting the energy transition’s challenges with advanced nuclear technology. Together, their partnership marks a historic step forward in developing cleaner, more sustainable, renewable energy. All of these sources will be needed to satisfy the increasing demand for clean power.