Russia Tests Next-Generation Nuclear Fuel in World First

Developed in Novosibirsk, the new TVS-5 fuel is undergoing trials at the Novovoronezh Nuclear Power Plant and promises longer life, greater safety, and higher economic efficiency.

Russia has begun testing a new type of nuclear fuel that could significantly outperform existing options in longevity, safety, and cost. The innovation, developed at the Novosibirsk Chemical Concentrates Plant—a key enterprise within Rosatom’s fuel division—is currently being trialed at the Novovoronezh Nuclear Power Plant.

The TVS-5 fuel was recently loaded into the VVER-1200 reactor at Unit 6 of the facility. This marks the first time such fuel has been used in a working power reactor anywhere in the world. The trial period is set to last 18 months and will determine whether the fuel is suitable for full-scale commercial deployment.

According to experts, the test is a key step toward the development of a two-component nuclear power system featuring a closed fuel cycle. The TVS-5 design is especially promising for fast-neutron reactors, which could extend its usability well beyond the limits of current fuel technologies.

Rosatom says digital tools and cutting-edge IT systems were crucial to the successful development of the fuel. If confirmed, the fuel could represent a major leap in the global nuclear energy race.