Chernobyl’s back: Ukraine eyes nuclear reactor for power after 39 years of disaster

undefined 21, 2025

Source: interestingengineering

Ukraine plans to build small modular reactors (SMRs) in the Chernobyl exclusion zone to meet future energy needs. Once the site of a major nuclear disaster in 1986, the area is now being considered for nuclear revival. Energoatom and Ukrenergo have identified 12 potential SMR sites, and a 2023 deal with Holtec includes up to 20 units. While some radiation remains, levels have dropped significantly, and surveys show parts of the zone may be usable again.

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