Belgium-based Tractebel and French nuclear start-up Hexana have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to strengthen cooperation in promoting nuclear-based cogeneration as a key solution for industrial decarbonisation, energy system resilience, and efficiency across Europe.
The two companies are leading the establishment of a dedicated small modular reactor (SMR) and advanced modular reactor (AMR) Cogeneration Task Force within COGEN Europe. The initiative will bring together stakeholders from the nuclear, industrial, and cogeneration sectors around a shared objective – to enhance recognition of nuclear cogeneration as a cornerstone of Europe’s energy future.
COGEN Europe is the main advocate for cogeneration in Europe, but nuclear is a new focus within the association, which is why Hexana and Tractebel decided to launch a task force dedicated to SMRs and AMRs within COGEN Europe. Both organisations invite other SMR and AMR developers, as well as industrial energy users, utilities, suppliers to join the task force.
The Task Force aims to foster dialogue, policy engagement, and public awareness on the critical role of nuclear cogeneration in Europe’s clean transition, both for industrial processes and district heating.
While most existing reactors are designed solely for electricity generation, their cogeneration potential remains largely untapped as only 15% of operational reactors currently use cogeneration. Nuclear technologies, including SMRs and AMRs, could supply up to 74% of the heat needed for industrial processes.
By combining electricity and heat production, SMRs and AMRs could deliver flexible, low-carbon energy solutions that strengthen industrial competitiveness and energy security while supporting industrial sectors in their shift away from fossil fuels.
“Nuclear cogeneration represents a unique opportunity to combine energy efficiency and low-carbon innovation to replace fossil fuels in industrial clusters. By joining forces, we can make nuclear cogeneration a visible, credible, and supported pathway for industrial decarbonisation in Europe,” said Hexana CEO Sylvain Nizou.
“Decarbonising industry remains one of Europe’s greatest challenges, with hard-to-abate sectors like cement, steel, and chemicals responsible for over 60% of EU industrial CO2 emissions, noted Bernard Marié, Head of Flex Power, Renewable, Industry & SMR, Business Area Gas, Energy & Nuclear at Tractebel. “Under the umbrella of COGEN Europe, the Task Force is a strategic step to unlock the potential of nuclear cogeneration and help shape a low-carbon industrial future for Europe. We invite all stakeholders to join us in this effort.”
