Hyundai Engineering & Construction (E&C) has successfully completed 22 nuclear projects to date and is currently managing four additional ongoing projects, showcasing its extensive experience and proven track record in the nuclear sector. This strong partnership is expected to expedite project timelines, leveraging Hyundai E&C’s expertise to support Fermi America’s ambitious private grid initiative. The collaboration signals Fermi America’s confidence in Hyundai E&C’s ability to deliver on its bold vision for transforming the energy infrastructure.
Fermi America and the Texas Tech University System made a big announcement when they announced that they have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Hyundai Engineering & Construction of South Korea to plan and develop the nuclear component of what is intended to be the largest and first-of-its-kind private grid in the world, which will power next-generation artificial intelligence.
Hyundai E&C has a remarkable history, having constructed four reactors at the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the United Arab Emirates and eighteen reactors in Korea. Two other reactors are presently in the engineering stage in Bulgaria, while two more are being built in Korea. Having delivered all four units safely, on schedule, and ahead of schedule, the Barakah project is regarded as one of the most timely and successful international nuclear initiatives in modern history.
In Seoul, South Korea, the two businesses signed an MOU outlining the material terms under which they will work together to design and implement the delivery of safe, clean new nuclear power as part of the largest private grid project in the world. This project will offer data center infrastructure, combined-cycle natural gas, grid power, solar power, and battery energy storage to deliver up to 11 GW of power.
This MOU covers feasibility studies, basic design (FEED) and EPC projects, as well as the cooperative planning of a nuclear-based hybrid energy project and the creation of a comprehensive commercial package by project stage.
“We couldn’t be more pleased to partner with the team at Hyundai E&C to power the future of AI,” stated Fermi America co-founder Toby Neugebauer. “America doesn’t have time to practice – we need to work with proven partners like Hyundai, who have a successful track record of planning and building safe, clean, new nuclear energy. Welcome to Texas!”
“We have been impressed by the executive team Fermi America has assembled, bringing together seasoned leaders in their respective fields,” stated Hyundai E&C CEO Hanwoo Lee. “We are especially pleased to see familiar faces in nuclear leadership from one of the most successful recent new build projects, and we look forward to working together to bring this ambitious vision to life.”
Fermi America filed its Combined Operating License Application (COLA) to construct AP1000 nuclear reactors in the United States on June 17. In record speed, the application was approved for evaluation. Fermi America hopes to have the first reactor running by 2032 and wants to start building the nuclear power complex next year with Hyundai E&C on board.
