El Salvador continues to take firm steps in its energy diversification strategy, including the development of nuclear energy with the highest safety standards.
Against this backdrop, the United States, El Salvador, and Canada recently co-sponsored a regional workshop to promote global energy security through the Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology (FIRST) initiative.
FIRST seeks to leverage the innovative potential of the nuclear industry to advance global energy security, working with countries exploring the use of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) to meet their needs while complying with rigorous standards.
Evaluating the Location
A crucial aspect of this path is selecting the site for the country’s first nuclear facility. Currently, El Salvador is already evaluating and choosing the location for its first nuclear plant, with possible sites in the departments of San Vicente or Chalatenango.
Although the definitive location has not yet been decided, these sites are being meticulously assessed to ensure the most suitable and secure choice.
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Regional Workshop
Attendees included representatives from Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Jamaica, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, as well as FIRST partners such as Canada, Japan, the Republic of Korea, and the United States.
Discussions focused on regulatory development, SMR licensing, stakeholder engagement, and deploying this technology according to the highest standards of nuclear safety, security, and non-proliferation.
U.S. Ambassador William Duncan emphasized the importance of diversifying energy sources:
“I commend El Salvador for its detailed and visionary approach to nuclear energy, which can be a tremendous opportunity for development but requires rigorous preparation, a skilled workforce, and a robust regulatory framework to ensure its benefits are delivered safely and sustainably.”
He also congratulated “El Salvador for its interest in implementing advanced, safe, and secure nuclear technologies.”
Duncan noted that these efforts are part of a memorandum of understanding on civil nuclear energy signed in February by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Salvadoran Foreign Minister Alexandra Hill, reiterating U.S. collaboration.
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Progress and Goals
Amélie Geoffroy, Counselor and Consul at the Canadian Embassy in El Salvador, highlighted the approval of El Salvador’s Nuclear Energy Act:
“El Salvador aims to have an operational research reactor within seven years and generate 26% of its energy through nuclear power by 2025. This transformation is part of a broader strategy to diversify the energy matrix, reduce environmental impact, and ensure accessible, stable electricity.”
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Daniel Alejandro Álvarez Campos, Honorary Director of El Salvador’s Nuclear Energy Program Implementation Agency (OIPEN), underscored the country’s commitment:
“We have political will, a consolidating institutional structure, and a firm commitment to training, radiological safety, and applying nuclear technologies in key sectors like health, agriculture, and water management.”
Ryan Taugher, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, added that SMRs will help countries achieve energy goals while strengthening economic and security ties with strategic partners.
The U.S. government reaffirmed that FIRST efforts aim to create responsible reactor programs, generate jobs, and strengthen global security through advanced nuclear technologies.
