NRG PALLAS signs letter of intent for Nuclear Education and Knowledge Centre Zeeland
During a symposium on 28 August about Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in Nieuwdorp, various parties from education, knowledge institutions, industry and government signed a letter of intent for the establishment of a Nuclear Education and Knowledge Centre in Zeeland.
The letter of intent was signed by HZ University of Applied Sciences, Stichting Scalda, Delft University of Technology, NRG PALLAS, the Nuclear Academy, COVRA N.V., N.V. EPZ, Urenco Nederland, Nucleair Nederland, the Province of Zeeland and N.V. Economische Impuls Zeeland.
The arrival of new nuclear power plants offers the Netherlands – and Zeeland in particular – many opportunities, but also requires a strong focus on strengthening the educational and knowledge infrastructure. Sufficient, well-trained staff is a prerequisite for the realization of new nuclear power plants.
The potential of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) is receiving increasing attention and provides a new perspective for (young) talent in education and research. Nationwide initiatives are already underway to attract students and improve education, such as the Nuclear Academy of Delft University of Technology and NRG PALLAS. The establishment of a Nuclear Knowledge Centre is the next step in ensuring a greater influx of qualified personnel.
By joining forces, education, research and collaboration with (inter)national partners can be further strengthened. With the Zeeland Knowledge Centre, practice-oriented research, development of elective modules, outreach at secondary schools, and a centre for public information can be realized. The Knowledge Centre can also provide important spin-offs to education and research in other sectors, including process industry and sustainable energy. Key focus areas include nuclear safety, system integration, nuclear waste management, SMRs, public acceptance, the impact of construction on the environment, and the use of digital innovations and AI.
Joost van den Broek, Director of Nuclear Energy Services, signed the letter of intent on behalf of NRG PALLAS CEO Maurits Wolleswinkel, and Robert Beekveldt signed on behalf of the Nuclear Academy. Van den Broek: “NRG PALLAS is pleased to facilitate the development of a Knowledge Centre specifically focused on Zeeland. It is essential that Zeeland gains access to new talent in order to realize the Dutch nuclear ambitions. The first experiences of the Nuclear Academy, which we have already developed together with educational institutions, can contribute to the development of this regional Knowledge Centre.”
