Turkey Plans Second Nuclear Plant with US, South Korea

Turkey is planning to develop a second nuclear power plant and is considering a trilateral partnership with the United States and South Korea, according to Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar. This prospective collaboration aims to replicate the technology transfer and affordable energy access terms that Turkey secured with Russia for its first nuclear plant, Akkuyu, which is expected to become operational in 2026. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has also engaged in discussions with leaders from Canada and France about both large and small modular reactors, indicating a broader international approach to expanding Turkey's nuclear energy capacity. The trilateral model involving the U.S. and South Korea reflects Turkey's strategic goal to enhance energy security and develop advanced nuclear technology with multiple partners. These efforts follow a recent memorandum of understanding signed between Turkey and the U.S. to deepen cooperation on nuclear technology, supply chain development, and workforce training. Overall, Turkey is actively pursuing diverse international partnerships to support its growing nuclear energy ambitions.