Small Modular Reactors: "We operate as an industrial group" (Cédric Barba, Newcleo)

"We are an industrial group. Since our creation, we have made three acquisitions in the French and European nuclear sector, namely SRS, Fucina Italia and Rütschi. Thanks in particular to these operations, we achieved sales of €70M in 2024", Cédric Barba, France Managing Director of Newcleo, told News Tank on 25/11/2025.

Newcleo is a Franco-Italian company whose aim is to design, build and operate advanced modular 4^th generation lead-cooled reactors using fuel from reprocessed nuclear waste. In particular, it plans to develop 200 MWe reactors in France and Europe.

"We believe that the UK was not ready to embark on a materials recycling programme. We were the only company authorised to enter the process, but we didn't feel there was any political interest. The UK is now reporting over 100 tonnes of available plutonium. We thought it was possible to take a different approach with this deposit".

Cédric Barba answers News Tank's questions.

What is Newcleo’s current business model?

We operate as an industrial group. Since our creation, we have acquired three companies in the French and…