Larsen & Toubro (L&T), an Indian technology and engineering company, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Clean Core Thorium Energy (CCTE), a US-based advanced nuclear fuel company, to collaborate on the development and deployment of CCTE’s ANEEL™ fuel (Advanced Nuclear Energy for Enriched Life). The partnership aims to support the global adoption of clean nuclear energy, with a particular focus on developing countries.
The ANEEL™ fuel, a combination of thorium and enriched uranium, is designed for use in Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR), Canada Deuterium Uranium (CANDU) Reactors, and Advanced Nuclear Reactors. According to the companies, the fuel is expected to reduce lifecycle operating costs and nuclear waste by more than 85%, while enhancing safety through its Accident-Tolerant Fuel characteristics. Additionally, it could contribute to energy security by enabling the large-scale deployment of thorium and reducing uranium consumption.
At the signing ceremony held in Mumbai, Anil Parab, Whole-time Director and Senior Executive Vice President of L&T’s Heavy Engineering division, emphasized the company’s focus on offering comprehensive solutions for nuclear energy. He stated that L&T would support the development of a supply chain for the ANEEL™ fuel, leveraging its manufacturing capabilities.
Mehul Shah, Founder and CEO of CCTE, highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership in advancing clean energy goals and noted that the collaboration is aligned with the Indo-US civil nuclear cooperation framework established in 2008.
CCTE’s ANEEL™ fuel is currently undergoing testing and qualification under a Strategic Partnership Project Agreement with the US Department of Energy. The fuel is expected to be ready for commercial use by 2026.