Steady Energy: Towards Cleaner District Heating with SMR Reactors

Nuclear power has long had a reputation as a large and complex energy solution that, due to its location, must take nearby settlements into account and requires massive infrastructure to operate. But what if nuclear power could be used on a smaller scale and safely even closer to its end-use sites?

Steady Energy has envisioned putting this idea into practice with its SMR (Small Modular Reactor) technology, which brings innovative solutions to district heat production. The Energy Blog interviewed Steady Energy’s Chief Commercial Officer, Matti Pentti, to explore how small reactor technology can transform energy production.

Nuclear power protected by bedrock

Steady Energy’s roots lie in VTT’s long history of nuclear power research and innovation. The company’s goal is to make nuclear power even safer, more environmentally friendly and easier to deploy.

One of Steady Energy’s key innovations is to place the reactor underground, protected by the Scandinavian bedrock. This solution brings both technical and economic benefits. The underground location clarifies safety issues and provides natural protection against external threats, while also reducing construction costs compared to a traditional nuclear power plant, as the rock serves as a more affordable alternative to massive reinforced concrete structures.

“Finland has a unique opportunity to leverage its long history in rock construction. The construction of metro and railway tunnels, as well as civil defence shelters, has created expertise that enables safe and cost-effective underground construction,” Pentti notes.

Innovation that simplifies nuclear power

At the heart of Steady Energy’s small reactor is a passive heat removal system that does not require external cooling water. This makes the technology independent of external infrastructure and improves the safety of the plant.

“Our reactor works like a thermos flask. At its core is a simple, yet extremely efficient and safe structure that keeps the temperature under control in all situations. When complex systems are not needed, the focus can be on what truly matters – reliable heat production and reducing the carbon footprint of energy generation,” Pentti explains.

The simplicity and passive safety of small reactors make them a particularly attractive solution for district heating production. Traditionally, district heating has been heavily dependent on fossil fuels, but small reactors can offer a zero-emission alternative for district heating, which would be a major breakthrough in the green transition of heat production.

“District heating is often a hidden form of energy that goes unnoticed, yet it accounts for a huge share of total energy consumption. Our technology not only reduces emissions, it also provides stable and cost-effective heat that fits perfectly into district heating networks,” Pentti explains.

Towards international success

Steady Energy is not focusing solely on the domestic market; the company’s goal is to turn small reactor technology into an export product that solves district heating challenges around the world. Construction of the first pilot reactor is scheduled to begin in 2026, and commercial operation is expected to start by 2030.

“The goal is to bring to market a technology that not only works, but also changes the rules of the game. Small reactors do not compete with other forms of energy; they complement them. This is not just a Finnish solution but a global opportunity,” Pentti says.

Pentti emphasizes that transparency and cooperation are key success factors for the future of nuclear power. “Building trust is critical. It is necessary to be open and ready to answer all questions – both technical and human. This is how nuclear power becomes a safe and responsible part of everyday life,” Pentti elaborates.

In conclusion

Steady Energy’s SMR technology represents the next generation of nuclear power – smaller, simpler and safer solutions that can be seamlessly integrated into the overall energy system. How quickly district heating will start to be produced with SMR plants depends on many factors, which will continue to be followed with interest on the energiajuristi.fi website and on LinkedIn.