European Generation IV nuclear power company Newcleo has begun the process to acquire land for its first lead-cooled LFR-AS-30 reactor in the Chinon Vienne et Loire region of western France.

Newcleo said that as part of its land prospecting work, it has begun “constructive discussions and procedures” with the Chinon Vienne et Loire community of municipalities for its project to build a 30-MW Generation IV nuclear reactor by 2031.

The small modular reactor will serve as an industrial demonstrator, a showcase for Newcleo’s technology, and contribute to the development of the nuclear sector in France.