Our Technology

The ATOMi reactor is based on time-tested designs in the public domain, adapted for African leadership in nuclear energy. It uses industrial-grade materials found in global supply chains, avoiding exotic alloys and experimental fuels. The architecture is straightforward, eliminating unnecessary complexity inherited from legacy systems. Its modular layout supports local fabrication, simplifies maintenance, and allows for serial construction to meet national and regional energy goals.

Traditional reactors have delivered extraordinary safety records over decades of operation, thanks to precision-engineered systems and rigorous oversight. The ATOMi reactor builds on this proven foundation, while simplifying the safety case to increase cost-effectiveness and accessibility without compromising public protection.

All nuclear components are fully enclosed within a 1.5-meter-thick reinforced concrete containment structure. This robust barrier ensures that, even in the event of a complete system failure, no radioactive material can reach the public. The reactor operates at atmospheric pressure, with no steam or high-pressure systems in the core, eliminating risks associated with pressure buildup.  The use of inert, chemically stable materials and a nitrogen-filled containment environment significantly reduces wear, corrosion, and the potential for reactive conditions.

This approach reduces complexity while preserving the core safety outcome: even under extreme failure scenarios, the public remains safe.

The ATOMi reactor produces electricity, high-quality heat, and clean water from compact, modular sites. Each plant connects directly to existing transmission and distribution infrastructure, strengthening the national grid while reducing reliance on expensive energy imports.

In addition to providing consistent power, the 6 MWe steam generators enhance grid stability by contributing inertia, improving power quality, and supporting voltage regulation, frequency control, and reactive power management across the system.

Beyond electricity, the reactor’s thermal output can drive fertilizer production, food processing, pulp and paper, and other energy-intensive industries. Heat delivery can be configured to match industrial demand, allowing new facilities to co-locate around long-term, affordable energy.

The ATOMi reactor is designed to follow load, scale with national demand, and stabilize the grid under a wide range of dynamic operating conditions. Its strong load-following capability supports a modern, responsive energy system for both industrial growth zones and rural communities.

The design separates the nuclear island from the turbine island, allowing for strategic siting and flexible layouts. Major components are modular and can be produced locally, enabling phased construction and faster deployment.

Each ATOMi station includes integrated irradiation channels that support national goals in healthcare, research, and advanced manufacturing.

This reactor design enables production of short- and medium-lived medical isotopes for diagnostics and cancer treatment, alongside in-core irradiation for materials testing and scientific research.

These capabilities enhance the site’s value as national infrastructure by advancing medical innovation, industrial development, and the hands-on training of Rwanda’s next generation of nuclear scientists and engineers.