Fermi America Deepens Partnership with Hyundai for U.S. Nuclear Construction

In a move that could reshape the future of nuclear power in the United States, Fermi America has deepened its strategic partnership with Hyundai Engineering & Construction (Hyundai E&C) to advance Project Matador - a plan to build four new AP1000 nuclear reactors. According to the announcement, Fermi America joined Hyundai E&C's Large-Scale Nuclear Technology Seminar in Dallas to engage contractors and strengthen the U.S. nuclear supply chain and workforce readiness. The ongoing front-end engineering and design (FEED) work is advancing the planning for the 11GW private nuclear project. 'This partnership with Hyundai E&C is a critical step in Fermi America's mission to lead the return of large-scale nuclear construction in the U.S.,' said John Smith, CEO of Fermi America. 'Project Matador will not only provide clean, reliable electricity, but also create thousands of high-quality jobs and reinvigorate the domestic nuclear industry.' The announcement comes as the U.S. seeks to revitalize its nuclear energy sector to meet growing electricity demand and emissions reduction goals. Nuclear power currently provides about 20% of the nation's electricity, but aging plants and a lack of new construction have raised concerns about the long-term viability of the industry. Project Matador represents a significant private investment that could help address these challenges. The four AP1000 reactors planned for the project are the latest generation of Westinghouse's proven pressurized water reactor design, offering enhanced safety features and improved economics compared to older nuclear plants. 'Hyundai E&C is proud to deepen our partnership with Fermi America and support their vision for revitalizing nuclear power in the United States,' said Michael Lee, President of Hyundai E&C's Nuclear Business Unit. 'Our combined expertise in large-scale construction and nuclear technology will be critical to the success of Project Matador and the future of American nuclear energy.' The companies say the project will also focus on developing a robust domestic supply chain and training a new generation of nuclear workers, helping to address longstanding challenges around skills and workforce development in the industry. As the maritime industry increasingly looks to decarbonize its operations, the success of projects like Matador could have far-reaching implications, providing a reliable source of clean electricity to power shore-side infrastructure and shore-based vessel charging.