Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power Partners with TerraPower to Transform Nuclear Energy Landscape

Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power Partners with TerraPower

On January 20, 2026, a significant announcement emerged from Bellevue, Washington, where TerraPower declared that Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) has officially joined its group of visionary investors. This strategic investment marks KHNP's inaugural venture into an advanced nuclear technology company, demonstrating its commitment to being at the forefront of the nuclear energy sector.

KHNP, celebrated for its expertise in constructing and operating nuclear plants, adds a formidable force to TerraPower, a leader in nuclear innovation. With its flagship Natrium® technology—an advanced nuclear reactor combined with a gigawatt-scale energy storage system—TerraPower aims to provide next-generation nuclear power solutions that ensure efficiency and sustainability. This collaboration comes at a pivotal time, not only for KHNP and TerraPower but also for the global nuclear energy landscape, which is eager for innovation and modernization.

The Vision Behind the Investment

TerraPower's President and CEO, Chris Levesque, expressed confidence in the partnership, citing strong relationships with various Korean organizations within the nuclear energy supply chain. He emphasized that KHNP's involvement is a crucial step in realizing the full potential of natrium technology. Levesque stated, “We are not just looking at domestic opportunities in the United States; we are thinking globally.”

The collaboration aims to expedite the first Natrium plant's construction in Wyoming, with plans to swiftly deploy more units both in the U.S. and internationally. Such rapid advancement is set to enhance the accessibility and adoption of advanced nuclear technologies, which are critical to addressing global energy needs and climate change challenges.

A Unified Approach to Advanced Nuclear Energy

Park In-sik, Executive Vice President at KHNP, also shared insights into the partnership, noting its importance for global next-generation nuclear power deployment. He remarked on the combination of KHNP’s 50 years of nuclear experience, SK Innovation’s energy strategic advantages, and TerraPower’s pioneering technology as fundamental elements that will position the trio as leaders in expanding the advanced nuclear market domestically and abroad.

These sentiments were echoed by Moohwan Kim, Executive Vice President at SK Innovation, highlighting the importance of KHNP's investment in consolidating the three-way collaboration in the advanced nuclear sector. The commitment entails not only supporting the Wyoming project but also exploring new nuclear ventures, which could lead to innovative breakthroughs, including the localization of key materials and components needed in the energy industry.

Overcoming Regulatory Barriers

KHNP's financial commitment is part of SK's previously announced $250 million investment into TerraPower and follows the successful completion of the U.S. Committee on Foreign Investment (CFIUS) review process in December 2025. The strategic collaboration began in 2023, laying the groundwork for what many in the industry view as a transformative partnership.

This announcement signifies more than a financial investment; it reflects a strategic alignment of three powerful entities aiming to shape the future of nuclear energy. The significance of KHNP's backing extends far beyond immediate returns; it is an investment in sustainable energy solutions that align with global efforts towards reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change.

Looking Ahead: A New Era for Nuclear Power

As KHNP, TerraPower, and SK Innovation forge ahead with their plans, they not only demonstrate their commitment to advancing nuclear technology but also signify a shift towards a collaborative approach in energy innovation. The forthcoming definitive commercialization agreements, expected to be signed within the year, are poised to set a strong foundation for a slew of global projects.

In conclusion, the partnership between Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power and TerraPower, alongside SK Innovation, could very well mark a watershed moment in the nuclear energy industry. As they embark on this journey together, the possibilities for transformative innovations in energy technology abound, paving a clearer path to a sustainable energy future and reinforcing the important role that nuclear power will play in meeting the world's growing energy demands.