The Government of El Salvador, with technical support from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has formally launched the Site and External Events Design (SEED) Mission. This scientific process will evaluate San Vicente and Chalatenango as candidate zones to host the country’s first nuclear plant. The studies prioritize:
- Tectonic stability (analysis of seismic faults).
- Water resources (for cooling systems).
- Socio-environmental impact (protection of ecosystems and communities).
Daniel Álvarez, director of the Organization for the Implementation of the Nuclear Energy Program (OIPEN), emphasized:
«This is one of the most important steps in our nuclear program and we have the direct support of the IAEA, whose representatives have come to El Salvador to rigorously review all proposed sites. They have guided us under the Agency’s highest safety standards, parameters, requirements, and recommendations».
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Technical Goal: Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
The Salvadoran nuclear project focuses on small modular reactor (SMR) technology, with an initial capacity of 100 MW. For reference:
- This equals 150% of the capacity of the El Chaparral hydroelectric dam (67 MW).
- They are safer and more flexible than conventional plants (per IAEA standards).
Álvarez detailed in 2024:
«In 7 years, we aim to have at least the research reactor, and later, a power reactor».
This strategy includes training 400 professionals in nuclear operation, safety, and regulation.
Why Nuclear Energy? The Strategic Vision
El Salvador seeks to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels (currently 30% of its energy matrix) and overcome the limits of other renewables:
- Solar ceiling: The territory cannot support more massive photovoltaic parks.
- Hydroelectric limit: The 6 existing dams cover the maximum viable capacity.
Álvarez defended the decision in 2024:
«Despite what people say, it is one of the most regulated and safest energies in the world. There are nuclear plants operating since the seventies […] In El Salvador, we already coexist with radioactive material: in radiology, in health matters—why not bet on it for electric power generation?».
Tripartite International Cooperation
The project has technical backing from three key actors:
- IAEA: Advisory support for site studies and personnel training.
- United States: Memorandum of cooperation signed in February 2025 during Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s tour.
- Argentina: Agreement signed in October 2024 during President Bukele’s official visit.
Note: The memoranda are not binding but reflect technical support and training.
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Next Steps and Challenges
- 2024-2025: Finalize SEED evaluation for San Vicente (advantage: access to the Cerrón Grande reservoir) and Chalatenango (advantage: low population density).
- 2026-2030: Construction of the research reactor for training.
- 2031: Operational start of the 100 MW SMR.
