Reactor

Scientists at a nuclear research gathering held additional talks covering plutonium production in fast reactors, the effects of nuclear war on water cycles, measurements at nuclear weapon test sites with remote detection of tests, and sustainability in relation to nuclear non-proliferation. The topics tie ongoing reactor research directly to arms control and detection concerns.

Poland has begun ordering long-lead components for its first AP1000 nuclear reactor, a step in the country's plan to build Westinghouse-designed reactors as part of its first nuclear power programme. The procurement marks early physical progress on a project central to Poland's efforts to cut dependence on coal and secure low-carbon energy supply.

The Nuclear Innovation Alliance has given an interview discussing how microreactors intended for military use are being tracked and accounted for. The discussion focuses on the challenges of oversight for small nuclear reactors being developed for defence applications, including monitoring, safety and regulatory questions as militaries show growing interest in portable nuclear power.

Energy companies are working to extract additional electricity from existing nuclear plants rather than building new reactors, the New York Times reports. The push is linked to surging demand from data centers, with Google among the companies tied to power deals, as tech firms scramble to secure reliable, low-carbon energy for artificial intelligence operations.

Oskarshamn, a coastal town in southeastern Sweden known for its nuclear power plant and harbour, is drawing attention online in Sweden. No single event has been confirmed behind the surge in interest, so it is not clear what specifically is being discussed. Talks about the site's nuclear facilities, including considerations around new reactor projects in Sweden, may be contributing to the attention.