Legal Framework for Small Modular Reactors in Turkey (2026 Guide for Foreign Investors)

Explore the legal framework for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in Turkey in 2026. Learn about licensing requirements, regulatory approvals, nuclear safety obligations, foreign investment rules, environmental compliance, and legal risks affecting SMR projects.

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are rapidly becoming one of the most significant developments in the global nuclear energy industry. Their smaller size, modular construction methods, enhanced safety features, and flexibility in deployment have attracted the attention of governments, investors, utilities, and technology providers worldwide. As countries seek reliable low-carbon energy sources while strengthening energy security, SMRs are increasingly viewed as a strategic solution for future electricity generation.

Turkey has publicly identified SMRs as a key component of its long-term nuclear energy strategy. Government officials have announced plans to develop a dedicated legal framework for SMRs and have stated that the country aims to deploy approximately 5 GW of SMR capacity by 2050 in addition to conventional nuclear power plants.

For foreign investors, reactor vendors, EPC contractors, engineering companies, infrastructure developers, and financial institutions, understanding the emerging legal framework for SMRs in Turkey is essential. While SMR-specific legislation is still developing, existing nuclear regulations already provide the foundation upon which future SMR projects will be licensed and regulated.

What Are Small Modular Reactors?

Small Modular Reactors are advanced nuclear reactors designed to generate electricity at a smaller scale than conventional nuclear power plants.

SMRs generally offer:

• Reduced construction periods
• Modular manufacturing capabilities
• Enhanced passive safety systems
• Flexible deployment options
• Lower upfront capital costs
• Scalability for industrial applications
• Potential integration with hydrogen production and desalination projects

Unlike large nuclear facilities that may require years of construction, SMRs are intended to be partially manufactured in factories and assembled on-site, potentially reducing construction risks and costs.

Turkey’s SMR Policy Objectives

Turkey views SMRs as an important component of its future energy mix.

Government statements indicate that Turkey intends to:

• Expand nuclear generation capacity
• Improve energy security
• Reduce dependence on imported fuels
• Increase domestic technological capabilities
• Develop local manufacturing capacity
• Strengthen nuclear supply chains

Senior government officials have repeatedly confirmed that Turkey intends to establish a specific legal framework for SMRs and pursue deployment as part of its long-term nuclear strategy.

Existing Legal Framework Governing Nuclear Activities

Although Turkey does not yet have a comprehensive SMR-specific regulatory code, nuclear activities are already governed by existing legislation.

The primary legal framework includes:

• Nuclear Regulation Law No. 7381
• Nuclear safety regulations
• Radiation protection regulations
• Environmental legislation
• Electricity market regulations
• Occupational health and safety laws
• National security regulations

The Nuclear Regulation Law established the Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NDK) as the principal body responsible for regulating and supervising nuclear activities in Turkey.

Until a dedicated SMR law enters into force, proposed SMR projects are expected to be regulated under the general nuclear framework applicable to conventional reactors.

Proposed SMR Legislation

One of the most significant recent developments is the Turkish government’s announcement that dedicated legislation for SMRs is being prepared.

Public statements by the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources indicate that Turkey intends to submit legislation designed to facilitate SMR deployment and create a stronger legal framework for investment and development.

The anticipated legislation may address:

• SMR licensing procedures
• Investment incentives
• Technology approval processes
• Regulatory oversight mechanisms
• Safety requirements
• Financing structures
• Local content obligations

Such legislation could significantly improve regulatory certainty for investors considering entry into the Turkish SMR market.

Role of the Nuclear Regulatory Authority

The Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NDK) remains the central institution responsible for nuclear regulation.

Its responsibilities include:

• Licensing nuclear facilities
• Safety oversight
• Radiation protection supervision
• Security inspections
• Regulatory enforcement
• Technical evaluations

Future SMR projects will almost certainly remain subject to NDK oversight regardless of whether a separate SMR law is enacted.

Foreign investors should expect extensive regulatory engagement throughout project development.

Licensing Procedures for SMRs

Although Turkey has not yet published a dedicated SMR licensing regime, licensing is expected to follow principles similar to those applicable to traditional nuclear facilities.

Potential licensing stages may include:

• Site approval
• Construction authorization
• Equipment certification
• Commissioning approvals
• Operating licenses
• Decommissioning approvals

One of the most important legal questions facing regulators worldwide is whether existing licensing frameworks designed for large reactors can be efficiently adapted for modular technologies. International nuclear organizations continue to examine this issue as SMR deployment accelerates globally.

Site Selection and Land Use Requirements

SMR projects may offer greater flexibility regarding site selection than conventional nuclear facilities.

Nevertheless, developers must still address:

• Zoning compliance
• Land acquisition issues
• Environmental restrictions
• Infrastructure availability
• Emergency planning zones
• Water resource considerations

Property-related disputes can significantly delay infrastructure projects.

Early legal due diligence remains essential before selecting a project site.

Environmental Impact Assessment Requirements

Environmental compliance remains a central component of nuclear regulation.

SMR developers should expect environmental reviews addressing:

• Radiation risks
• Water consumption
• Waste management
• Ecosystem impacts
• Air emissions
• Emergency preparedness

Environmental approval procedures may become one of the most important legal hurdles facing future SMR projects.

Failure to obtain environmental approvals can delay construction and financing.

Nuclear Safety Requirements

Safety remains the most important regulatory priority within the nuclear industry.

Future SMR regulations will likely require compliance with:

• Reactor safety standards
• Radiation protection rules
• Emergency planning obligations
• Quality assurance systems
• Safety culture requirements
• Operational monitoring procedures

Many SMR designs emphasize passive safety features, which may influence future regulatory approaches. However, regulatory authorities will still require extensive technical evidence before approving commercial deployment.

Nuclear Security and Cybersecurity

SMRs are expected to be classified as critical infrastructure.

Developers and operators will likely face requirements concerning:

• Physical security systems
• Access controls
• Personnel screening
• Cybersecurity measures
• Information protection
• Incident response planning

Cybersecurity has become increasingly important due to the digital nature of modern reactor technologies.

Future SMR regulations are expected to include robust digital security requirements.

Foreign Investment Considerations

Foreign participation is expected to play a significant role in Turkey’s SMR development plans.

Investors should carefully evaluate:

• Licensing obligations
• Ownership structures
• Technology transfer restrictions
• National security reviews
• Regulatory approval requirements

Turkey has actively explored cooperation with international SMR developers and technology providers as part of its broader nuclear strategy.

Proper investment structuring is critical for minimizing legal risk.

Technology Transfer and Intellectual Property Issues

SMR projects involve advanced technologies and proprietary reactor designs.

Important legal issues may include:

• Technology licensing agreements
• Patent protection
• Trade secret protection
• Software licensing
• Technical documentation ownership

Technology providers should carefully structure intellectual property arrangements before entering project partnerships.

Poorly drafted agreements can create substantial future disputes.

Financing and Project Development Risks

Although SMRs may reduce capital costs compared to conventional nuclear facilities, financing remains a significant challenge.

Developers may require:

• Government support mechanisms
• Export credit financing
• Project finance structures
• Strategic partnerships
• Public-private cooperation models

Investors should carefully evaluate regulatory stability before committing capital to long-term nuclear projects.

Nuclear Liability Issues

Future SMR operators will likely remain subject to nuclear liability frameworks governing:

• Radiation damage
• Environmental contamination
• Personal injury claims
• Property damage

Liability allocation mechanisms must be carefully considered during project development.

Insurance requirements are also expected to remain a critical component of risk management.

Radioactive Waste Management Obligations

SMRs generate radioactive waste and spent fuel requiring long-term management.

Developers should anticipate legal obligations relating to:

• Waste classification
• Storage facilities
• Transportation procedures
• Disposal planning
• Environmental monitoring

Waste management responsibilities often extend throughout the entire lifecycle of a nuclear project.

Opportunities for Foreign Investors

Turkey’s SMR strategy creates potential opportunities for:

• Reactor vendors
• Engineering companies
• EPC contractors
• Equipment manufacturers
• Infrastructure developers
• Financial institutions
• Technology providers

Government policy statements suggest strong long-term support for SMR deployment as part of national energy planning.

Investors entering the market early may benefit from future growth opportunities as the legal framework develops.

Future Regulatory Trends

Several trends are expected to shape future SMR regulation in Turkey:

• Adoption of dedicated SMR legislation
• Enhanced cybersecurity requirements
• Simplified licensing procedures
• Increased international regulatory cooperation
• Expanded investment incentives
• Development of local supply chains

The proposed SMR law is likely to become one of the most significant regulatory developments affecting the Turkish nuclear sector during the coming years.

Conclusion

Small Modular Reactors represent one of the most promising developments in the future of nuclear energy. Turkey has clearly identified SMRs as a strategic priority and is actively developing a legal and regulatory framework designed to support their deployment. While current projects remain subject to existing nuclear legislation, government initiatives indicate that a dedicated SMR legal framework is likely to emerge in the near future.

Foreign investors, reactor developers, technology providers, and infrastructure companies should closely monitor regulatory developments while conducting comprehensive legal due diligence before entering the Turkish SMR market. Early planning, regulatory compliance, and experienced legal guidance remain essential for successfully navigating this evolving sector.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Does Turkey currently have a specific law governing Small Modular Reactors?

Not yet. SMRs are currently governed by the general nuclear regulatory framework, although the government has announced plans for dedicated SMR legislation.

2. Which authority regulates SMRs in Turkey?

The Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NDK) is responsible for overseeing nuclear activities and is expected to regulate future SMR projects.

3. Does Turkey plan to deploy SMRs?

Yes. Government officials have announced a target of approximately 5 GW of SMR capacity by 2050.

4. Can foreign investors participate in SMR projects?

Yes. Foreign participation is expected to play an important role, subject to licensing requirements, regulatory approvals, and national security considerations.

5. Will SMRs require environmental approvals?

Yes. Environmental assessments and regulatory approvals are expected to remain mandatory.

6. Are SMRs subject to nuclear safety regulations?

Yes. SMRs must comply with nuclear safety, radiation protection, and security requirements.

7. What legal risks affect SMR projects?

Key risks include licensing delays, regulatory uncertainty, environmental challenges, technology transfer issues, and financing risks.

8. Why is legal due diligence important for SMR investments?

Legal due diligence helps identify regulatory requirements, licensing risks, environmental obligations, and investment restrictions before project development begins.

Legal Support for Small Modular Reactor Projects

Small Modular Reactor projects involve complex legal, regulatory, environmental, and commercial considerations. Investors, technology providers, engineering companies, contractors, and project developers should seek experienced legal guidance before entering the Turkish nuclear market.

A proactive legal strategy can help reduce regulatory uncertainty, strengthen compliance, protect investments, and support successful project implementation.

Contact Fırat Fesih Kaya Law

Fırat Fesih Kaya Law provides legal services to foreign investors, nuclear technology companies, infrastructure developers, energy companies, EPC contractors, financial institutions, and project sponsors involved in nuclear energy projects throughout Turkey.

Phone: +90 312 434 22 22

Mobile: +90 532 769 22 22

Email: info@firatfesihkaya.av.tr

Address: Mevlana Boulevard No:221, Yildirim Tower No:148, 06520 Balgat, Cankaya, Ankara, Turkey

Contact our legal team today for tailored legal advice regarding SMR investments, nuclear licensing procedures, regulatory approvals, project structuring, compliance obligations, and dispute resolution services in Turkey’s emerging Small Modular Reactor sector.