ENS Webinar - Powering Advanced Reactor Projects - The Role of Fuel Innovation

Advanced reactor technologies, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs), are expected to play an important role in the future evolution of the nuclear energy sector. This webinar, organised together with Framatome (ENS Corporate Member), explores current developments in advanced nuclear fuel solutions for next-generation reactor technologies, with a particular focus on light water reactor-based designs. Discussions addressed how existing fuel experience can support emerging reactor concepts, the role of innovation in fuel development and qualification, and the technical and industrial challenges associated with scaling up future deployment. The webinar also examines broader aspects linked to advanced fuel ecosystems, including international cooperation, manufacturing capabilities and the integration of new technologies into established safety and regulatory frameworks. Through technical insights and practical perspectives, the session aims to provide an overview of ongoing efforts supporting the next generation of nuclear energy systems. Speakers: Alice Dufresne | Domain Manager for SMR, Core Components and Additive Manufacturing, Framatome Olivier Tougait | Innovation & Advanced Fuel Domain Manager, Framatome Moderator: Diego Jaramillo Sierra | Nuclear Fuel Safety Analyst at European Commission JRC Karlsruhe - Jovenes Nucleares