Archive · 11 Aug 2025
Rosatom Adapts Nuclear Icebreaker Tech to Develop Small Reactors
Imagine small, safe nuclear power plants, like the ones that power icebreakers in icy seas.
That's what Rosatom is making!
They're called SMRs, and they're designed to be used in places where it's hard to build a big power plant.
These plants are pretty small, can last a long time, and can be refueled much less often.
They also have backup safety systems in case something goes wrong, like special ways to cool down and stop any leaks.
Rosatom is even making ones that float!
They're using them to bring power to faraway places where people live and work.
Rosatom's RITM-200 series reactors, based on icebreaker technology, are being adapted for land and offshore use.
These SMRs have a capacity of 55 MW, a design life of 60 years, and refuelling cycles up to 10 years for floating plants.
Safety features include active and passive systems for accident prevention, and protection against natural and man-made threats.
The reactors use low-enriched uranium and are designed for efficient fuel cycles suitable for remote locations.
Rosatom is deploying RITM-200N in Yakutia, scheduled for commissioning in 2028, and building floating power units.
- Who
- Rosatom, Russia's nuclear energy company.
- What
- Rosatom is adapting its RITM-200 SMR technology for land and offshore energy applications.
- When
- The RITM-200N is scheduled for commissioning in 2028.
- Where
- The RITM-200N is being built in the Ust-Kuiga settlement in Yakutia, Russia. Also being deployed in remote and offshore locations.
- Why
- To provide clean energy in areas with limited grid infrastructure and to support the development of remote regions.
Advantages
Disadvantages
Cost and Deployment
Advantages
Lower capital investment and shorter construction timelines.
Disadvantages
May not be suitable for large-scale energy production.
- Reactor Series
- RITM-200
- Capacity
- 55 MW (electrical), 190 MW (thermal)
- Design Life
- 60 years
- Refueling Cycle
- Up to 10 years for floating variants
- Fuel
- Low-enriched uranium (19%)
- Safety Features
- Active and passive systems; protection against natural/man-made threats