Versatile European Reactor for Neutron Irradiation and Nuclear Research
VERONICA is Europe’s largest and most versatile next-generation research reactor facility, located in Slovenia. Designed to serve cutting edge science, industry, and education, it brings together two research reactors in one unique facility:
- Zero Power Reactor
-
Multi Purpose Research Reactor
Built with a focus on versatility, accessibility, and collaboration, VERONICA is a necesary future platform supporting a wide range of scientific disciplines and ensuring European leadership in critical technologies of the 21st century.
Versatile European Reactor for Neutron Irradiation and Nuclear Research
VERONICA is Europe’s next-generation research reactor facility, located in Slovenia, at the heart of the continent. Designed to serve cutting edge science, industry, and education, it brings together two research reactors in one unique facility:
- Zero Power Reactor
-
Multi Purpose Research Reactor
Built with a focus on versatility, accessibility, and collaboration, VERONICA is a necesary future platform supporting a wide range of scientific disciplines and ensuring European leadership in critical technologies of the 21st century.
Goals of the Project
The VERONICA project is a strategic initiative to develop a roadmap for a new European research reactor in Slovenia, addressing the decline of research reactors, increasing demand for nuclear research services, and supporting Europe’s transition to a zero-carbon society.
This project aligns with Europe’s nuclear energy goals, including the long-term operation of existing reactors and the development of new nuclear power plants and small modular reactors (SMRs).
Key Objectives
- Assess Stakeholder Needs – Survey existing European research reactor projects and identify key stakeholders
- Define Technical & Functional Requirements – Evaluate existing and emerging research reactor designs, explore possible applications across wide variety of fields.
- Select Reactor Concept – Identify and refine two reactor types: a Zero-Power Reactor (ZPR) and a Multi-Purpose Research Reactor (MPRR), which could be co-located.
- Perform Feasibility Study
- Develop a Business Model – Assessing technical, economic, and regulatory aspects to ensure sustainability and market alignment.
- Develop a Strategic Plan
JSI and CEA Cooperation
The VERONICA project is a Bilateral Research Project between Slovenian “Jožef Stefan” Institute (JSI) and French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA).
“Jožef Stefan” Institute
Long term operational experience with TRIGA Mark II reactor, gaining insight into the existing and future needs for research reactor services.
CEA
Long term operational experience with 30+ research reactors, having experties in practically all fields of research reactor operation and utilization. Currently constructing JHR.
Why Build a New Reactor?
- Ageing Infrastructure: The European research reactor fleet has an average age of 57 years. A new reactor in Slovenia will address this gap and set a benchmark for modern nuclear research.
- Enhanced Capabilities: The new reactor will be designed for versatility and accessibility, exceeding current possible applications and addressing future needs for testing technologies for Gen IV reactors, SMRs, fusion applications, and more.
- International Collaboration: Designed to serve EU countries and international stakeholders, this facility fosters international cooperation and supports a sustainable future in nuclear science.
- Education and Training: With advanced simulation and operational capabilities, the reactor will train the next generation of nuclear scientists, engineers, and power plant operators.
VERONICA represents essential infrastructure for achieving the strategic goals of Slovenia, Europe, and the wider world—advancing science, driving innovation, and delivering tangible benefits to society at large.
Goals of the Project
The VERONICA project is a strategic initiative to develop a roadmap for a new European research reactor in Slovenia, addressing the decline of research reactors, increasing demand for nuclear research services, and supporting Europe’s transition to a zero-carbon society.
This project aligns with Europe’s nuclear energy goals, including the long-term operation of existing reactors and the development of new nuclear power plants and small modular reactors (SMRs).
Key Objectives
- Assess Stakeholder Needs – Survey existing European research reactor projects and identify key stakeholders
- Define Technical & Functional Requirements – Evaluate existing and emerging research reactor designs, explore possible applications across wide variety of fields.
- Select Reactor Concept – Identify and refine two reactor types: a Zero-Power Reactor (ZPR) and a Multi-Purpose Research Reactor (MPRR), which could be co-located.
- Perform Feasibility Study
- Develop a Business Model – Assessing technical, economic, and regulatory aspects to ensure sustainability and market alignment.
- Develop a Strategic Plan
JSI and CEA Cooperation
The VERONICA project is a Bilateral Research Project between Slovenian “Jožef Stefan” Institute (JSI) and French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA).
JSI
“Jožef Stefan” Institute
Long term operational experience with TRIGA Mark II reactor, gaining insight into the existing and future needs for research reactor services.
CEA
CEA
Long term operational experience with 30+ research reactors, having experties in practically all fields of research reactor operation and utilization. Currently constructing JHR.
Why Build a New Reactor?
- Ageing Infrastructure: The European research reactor fleet has an average age of 57 years. A new reactor in Slovenia will address this gap and set a benchmark for modern nuclear research.
- Enhanced Capabilities: The new reactor will be designed for versatility and accessibility, exceeding current possible applications and addressing future needs for testing technologies for Gen IV reactors, SMRs, fusion applications, and more.
- International Collaboration: Designed to serve EU countries and international stakeholders, this facility fosters international cooperation and supports a sustainable future in nuclear science.
- Education and Training: With advanced simulation and operational capabilities, the reactor will train the next generation of nuclear scientists, engineers, and power plant operators.