ZettaJoule’s Strategic Legal Appointment
ZettaJoule, headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has made a significant move by appointing Kym Harshaw as their Chief Legal Officer. This decision comes at a pivotal time as the company leads advancements in next-generation small modular reactor (SMR) technologies through its parent company, ZettaJoule Inc. Under the leadership of CEO Mitsuo Shimoto, ZettaJoule aims to further solidify its status in the nuclear energy landscape.
Kym Harshaw, a well-respected figure in the nuclear industry and a seasoned attorney, brings extensive operational experience and legal expertise to the role. Her responsibilities will involve navigating regulatory challenges, crafting corporate strategies, managing legal risks, and overseeing governance aspects, including critical contracts and partnerships.
Until recently, she served as the Interim President and CEO of the South Texas Project Nuclear Operating Company (STPNOC). Her experience here is invaluable, as she oversaw one of the largest power generation facilities in the United States, known for its ability to produce approximately 2,700 megawatts of electricity. Kym’s previous roles, coupled with her position on the board, have equipped her with unique insights into the challenges and opportunities within the nuclear power sector. Notably, she was also one of the early women to obtain the “Senior Reactor Operator” license, a prestigious qualification regulated by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), showcasing her commitment and competence in this field.
The South Texas Project
The South Texas Project is renowned as one of the largest nuclear power facilities in the U.S., boasting an impressive operational reliability above the national average of 90%. As a two-unit facility, STP has consistently ranked top in annual generation outputs, evidencing its reliability and performance in the nuclear industry.
Understanding High-Temperature Gas Reactors (HTGR)
The High-Temperature Gas-Cooled Reactor (HTGR) is a promising innovation within the nuclear realm, noted for its intrinsic safety features and high output temperatures that can reach up to 950℃. HTGRs offer versatile applications beyond electricity generation, including industrial process heat, hydrogen and ammonia production, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and even seawater desalination. As industries face mounting pressure for decarbonization, the HTGR technology is garnering attention from Big Tech and Oil Majors. It embodies the key to achieving clean and stable energy sources in various sectors, setting the stage for a greener future.
Overview of ZettaJoule
ZettaJoule Inc. is dedicated to the design and development of next-generation nuclear systems, with the aim of enhancing Japan’s globally revered HTGR technology. The firm is committed to elevating clean energy solutions to international standards while contributing to a sustainable energy society both domestically and globally. Established on the principles of innovation and excellence, ZettaJoule aspires to significantly impact Japan's nuclear industry and the overarching energy landscape.
- - Established: December 2023
- - Headquarters: 1-5-1 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
- - Technical Base: 1-7-5 Jonan, Mito City, Ibaraki
- - CEO: Mitsuo Shimoto
- - Parent Company: ZettaJoule Inc. (U.S.)
- - Founded: August 2023
- - Head Office: Rockville, Maryland
- - Employees: Approximately 50 (including contractors)
- - Major Investors: Globis Capital Partners, Coral Capital, Archetype Ventures, SOSV, HAX, etc.
- - Vision: Shape the future with sustainable energy solutions
- - Mission: To deploy the first global fleet of Advanced Reactors
Join Our Team!
ZettaJoule is actively seeking individuals who resonate with our vision and mission to propel our business forward. With over 50 hires planned for this year alone, we invite passionate candidates to visit our
recruitment page for more information on joining our pioneering team in the nuclear energy field.