Rwanda's Bold Nuclear Power Push Secures US and Holtec Deals for 2030s Launch
Rwanda has taken a major step towards introducing nuclear power by signing key agreements with the US and Holtec International. The deals aim to deploy small modular reactors (SMRs) in the country, with plans for the first unit to go live in the early 2030s.
President Paul Kagame opened the Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit for Africa, highlighting the role of energy in driving industrial growth and competitiveness across the continent. The Rwanda Atomic Energy Board and Holtec International have signed a development agreement to work together on deploying SMR-300 units. These reactors could eventually provide up to 5 GW of capacity in Rwanda. Holtec has been refining its SMR-300 design since 2011 and plans to install two reactors at the Palisades site in Michigan.
Rwanda also signed a memorandum of understanding with the US on civil nuclear cooperation. Jacob Helberg, US Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs, stressed Washington’s commitment to supporting the project alongside Holtec. Rafael Marin, Holtec’s Enterprise Unit Director, called the partnership a milestone, noting Rwanda’s potential to become a leader in SMR adoption in Africa.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has already endorsed Rwanda’s progress. Its Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) Phase 1 report confirmed the country’s readiness to move to Phase 2 of its nuclear programme. IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi also signed an agreement with Rwanda to strengthen cooperation on integrating nuclear energy into its power grid.
President Kagame’s opening remarks at the summit underscored the link between reliable energy and economic development. He described nuclear power as a critical tool for boosting Rwanda’s industrial capabilities and global competitiveness. The agreements set Rwanda on course to launch its first small modular reactor within the next decade. With US backing, Holtec’s technology, and IAEA support, the project aims to expand Rwanda’s energy infrastructure significantly. The initiative could also position the country as a regional pioneer in advanced nuclear energy solutions.
