Oakridge has been designated laureate of the "Innovative Nuclear Reactors" call for projects under the nuclear component of France 2030. As a major player in international nuclear engineering consulting, the company will leverage its nuclear safety expertise for Small Modular Reactor (SMR) development.
From 2024 to 2025, Oakridge participates in the feasibility demonstration of the innovative Thorizon One reactor, a 250 MWth molten salt reactor. The work focuses specifically on reactor safety and operation aspects.
The Proxima project brings together Thorizon (Dutch startup), Orano (French group), École Centrale de Lille, University of Lille, Oakridge, with CEA support. The Thorizon One reactor uses modular cartridges containing molten salt serving as both fuel and coolant, targeting 100 MWe output by recycling spent nuclear fuel.
Cyrille Molina, Oakridge's founder-president, states: "Oakridge is writing a new chapter in its history as co-designer of the innovative Thorizon One nuclear reactor." The funding will increase the company's activity and development, confirming its role in the French and European SMR communities.