The U.S. Office of Nuclear Energy (ENA) announced the opening of DOME (Demonstration of Microreactor Experiments), the world's first facility dedicated to the development, testing, and demonstration of advanced nuclear microreactors.
Located at INL (Idaho National Laboratory), the project is run by NRIC (National Registration Identity Card) and is already available for use by private companies.
The structure was designed to accelerate the validation of emerging nuclear technologies, providing a safe environment for experiments with reactors of up to 20 MW of thermal power.
The goal is to reduce costs, timelines, and risks associated with developing these solutions, as well as to generate technical data for commercial licensing processes.
Infrastructure
The DOME has a cupola approximately 30 meters high and 24 meters in diameter, constructed from the repurposed containment structure of the former Experimental Reproduction Reactor II. The facility allows for testing under real operating conditions, with continuous performance monitoring.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the center is part of a national strategy to strengthen leadership in advanced nuclear technologies, focusing on energy security and industrial innovation.
Applications and market
Microreactors are compact nuclear systems designed to produce up to 20 MW of thermal power, capable of generating electricity or directly supplying heat. Due to their portability and ability to operate independently, these technologies are considered strategic for:
- Isolated microgrids
- Remote communities
- Military operations
- data centers
- Maritime and space applications
The model also emerges as an alternative to replace diesel generators in regions with limited access to the electricity grid.
Tests
The company Radiant will be the first to use the facility, with tests scheduled for the Kaleidos microreactor. The campaign will last approximately one year, with the preparatory phase beginning this spring and initial operation expected in the Northern Hemisphere summer.
Access to DOME is through an annual competitive process that evaluates criteria such as technological maturity, fuel availability, regulatory strategy, and project financing capacity.
Next Steps
The launch of the DOME This comes at a time of global expansion of advanced nuclear technologies. The initiative seeks to accelerate the transition from concepts to commercial applications, connecting technological innovation to the needs of the energy market. The next call for projects interested in using the infrastructure will open later this year.
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