U.S. Launches Small Modular Reactor Simulator in Romania to Support Next-Generation Nuclear Workforce
The United States, in collaboration with Romania, has inaugurated the NuScale Energy Exploration (E2) Center at the University Politehnica of Bucharest. This marks the first launch of the NuScale Power’s VOYGR™ small modular reactor (SMR) control room simulator outside of the United States. The E2 Center aims to educate and train the next generation of nuclear engineers, establishing Romania as a regional hub for advanced civil nuclear deployments.
The simulator provides an innovative learning environment where students can apply nuclear science and engineering principles through simulated real-world scenarios. The E2 Center reflects the commitment made by Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security, Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins, at the recent Climate Change Conference in Glasgow. As part of the “Nuclear Futures Package,” the simulator supports Romania’s ambitious civil nuclear energy program and its vision of becoming a SMR hub in the region.
The launch of the E2 Center reinforces the strong partnership between the United States and Romania in advancing civil nuclear technologies. With Romania’s extensive experience in safe nuclear power operations, it is an ideal partner for deploying the first SMR in Europe. The initiative builds upon the U.S.-Romania Intergovernmental Agreement for cooperation on Romania’s civil nuclear power program, signed in 2020, further solidifying the multi-decade relationship.
The E2 Center is a collaborative effort involving NuScale, SN Nuclearelectrica, RoPower, and Politehnica University. It receives support from the Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology (FIRST) capacity-building program. The establishment of the E2 Center not only strengthens Romania’s leadership in SMR deployment but also contributes to climate action, energy security, and energy access throughout Europe and the world.
The United States remains committed to supporting innovative clean energy technologies, facilitating global decarbonization efforts, and providing sustainable options to transition hard-to-abate energy sectors towards a net-zero future.