This online workshop hosted on 22 October 2025 by the European Commission and NetZeroCities explored the potential of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as an innovative solution for district heating. The introduction by DGRTD on the EU policy context was followed by examples of ongoing and planned SMR projects from cities and stakeholders and open discussion.
Agenda
13.00 - 13.05 Welcome introduction and moderation
- Opening remarks and objectives of the session
Philippe Froissard (DG RTD)
13.05 – 13.20 Policy and Regulatory Context
- Overview of the state of play: current EU agenda, initiatives and frameworks for SMRs
Domenico Rossetti di Valdalbero (DG RTD-Euratom Research)
13.20 – 13.35 Technological Opportunities and Availability
- Developed and emerging SMR technologies
- Examples of ongoing and upcoming technological projects
- Role of the cities in leveraging innovation and technical partnerships
Angelgiorgio Iorizzo (DG RTD)
13.35 – 13.50 Economic Dimension and Financing Opportunities
- Overview of the SMR market and existing gaps
- Financing support available under EU
- Cost implications and models for local implementation
- Economic value added and potential for local growth
Angelgiorgio Iorizzo (DG RTD), Michael Fuetterer (JRC)
13.50 – 14.30 Specific projects and initiatives (10 mins each)
- TANDEM: Small Modular Reactor for a European safe and Decarbonized Energy Mix - Christophe Schneidesch
- EASI SMR: Ensuring Assessment of Safety Innovations for SMR - Nicolas Sobecki
- SANE: Safety Assessment of Non-Electric uses of nuclear energy - Atte Helminen
- EU SMR Alliance: The European Industrial Alliance on SMRs: Opportunities for urban decarbonisation - Abdou Al Mazouzi
14.30 – 14.50 Q&A and Open Discussion
- Questions from participants
- Exchange of experiences and perspectives from Mission Cities
14.50 – 15:00 Wrap-up and Next Steps
- Summary of main conclusions
- Information about possible follow-up sessions or working groups
Philippe Froissard (DG RTD)