HEXANA Company Profile

Background

Overview

HEXANA is an innovative energy company specializing in the development of modular sodium-cooled fast neutron reactors (SFRs) integrated with thermal energy storage systems. Established in 2023 as a spin-off from the French Atomic Energy and Alternative Energies Commission (CEA), HEXANA aims to provide sustainable, low-carbon energy solutions to industrial sectors. The company is headquartered in Aix-en-Provence, France.

Mission and Vision

HEXANA's mission is to accelerate the energy transition by offering safe, reliable, and credible Generation IV nuclear technology. The company's vision is to become a strategic linchpin in achieving the European Union's Net Zero targets, addressing climate, energy, and industrial challenges of the 2030s.

Primary Area of Focus

The company focuses on developing modular and flexible fourth-generation nuclear systems, specifically sodium-cooled fast reactors, to provide low-carbon energy solutions for heavy industries and transportation sectors.

Industry Significance

HEXANA's technology addresses the urgent need for decarbonization in energy-intensive industries by offering a sustainable and firm energy source, thereby contributing to Europe's energy independence and supporting the transition toward sustainable energy.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Accelerate the deployment of Generation IV nuclear technology.

Provide low-carbon, reliable, and scalable energy solutions to industrial sectors.

Enhance Europe's energy independence and support the transition to sustainable energy.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Design and development of modular sodium-cooled fast neutron reactors (SFRs).

Integration of thermal energy storage systems with nuclear reactors.

Upcycling spent nuclear fuel to preserve natural resources.

Key Technologies Utilized

Sodium-cooled fast neutron reactors (SFRs).

High-temperature thermal energy storage systems.

Spent nuclear fuel reprocessing technologies.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

Heavy industries requiring high-temperature heat and power.

Hydrogen production and synthetic fuels (e-SAF).

European energy markets seeking low-carbon and reliable energy sources.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

In January 2025, HEXANA secured a €25 million funding package, comprising €15 million in private investment and €10 million in public subsidies from Bpifrance, awarded under the France 2030 initiative for innovative nuclear reactor projects.

Notable Investors

Blast.club

Eren Industries

CEA Investissement

Région Sud Investissement

Intended Utilization of Capital

Finalize the preliminary design of the reactor.

Submit the Safety Options Dossier to the Nuclear Safety Authority.

Initiate the detailed design phase of the project.

Secure the first industrial clients and deployment sites in Europe.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

Modular sodium-cooled fast neutron reactors (SFRs) with integrated thermal energy storage systems.

Stages of Development

Preliminary design phase completed.

Safety Options Dossier submitted to the Nuclear Safety Authority.

Detailed design phase initiated.

Target Conditions

High-temperature heat and power for heavy industries.

Low-carbon electricity generation.

Thermal energy storage for grid stability and ancillary services.

Anticipated Milestones

Completion of detailed reactor design.

Construction and commissioning of pilot reactors.

Deployment of reactors at industrial sites across Europe.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Modular sodium-cooled fast neutron reactors (SFRs).

Integrated thermal energy storage systems.

Spent nuclear fuel reprocessing technologies.

Significant Scientific Methods

Advanced reactor design and safety analysis methodologies.

High-temperature thermal energy storage and management techniques.

Nuclear fuel cycle optimization and waste reduction strategies.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

Sylvain Nizou: Co-Founder, Chief Executive Officer & President.

Paul Gauthé: Chief Technology Officer.

Jean-Baptiste Droin: Chief Innovation Officer.

Professional Backgrounds and Contributions

Sylvain Nizou: Co-founder and CEO, leading the strategic direction and overall management of HEXANA.

Paul Gauthé: Chief Technology Officer, responsible for overseeing the technological development and implementation of HEXANA's reactor systems.

Jean-Baptiste Droin: Chief Innovation Officer, focusing on driving innovation and integrating new technologies into HEXANA's offerings.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The nuclear energy sector is experiencing a resurgence, driven by the need for low-carbon energy solutions and energy independence. Modular reactors, particularly sodium-cooled fast neutron reactors, are gaining attention for their safety features and efficiency. The market is characterized by significant investment in research and development, regulatory challenges, and competition from renewable energy sources.

Competitor Analysis

Terrestrial Energy: Developing the Integral Molten Salt Reactor (IMSR), focusing on providing clean, reliable, and cost-effective energy.

X-Energy: Specializing in the Xe-100 high-temperature gas-cooled reactor, aiming to deliver safe and scalable nuclear power.

Oklo: Developing compact nuclear reactors with a focus on sustainability and efficiency.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

HEXANA has established partnerships with leading investors such as Blast.club, Eren Industries, CEA Investissement, and Région Sud Investissement. These collaborations provide financial support and strategic guidance, facilitating the development and deployment of HEXANA's technologies.

Operational Insights

HEXANA's focus on modular sodium-cooled fast neutron reactors with integrated thermal energy storage systems differentiates it from competitors by offering a flexible and scalable solution tailored to the needs of heavy industries and transportation sectors. The company's emphasis on upcycling spent nuclear fuel and enhancing the nuclear fuel cycle further strengthens its competitive position.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

HEXANA is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for low-carbon energy solutions in Europe. The company's strategic roadmap includes completing reactor design, obtaining regulatory approvals, and deploying reactors at industrial sites across Europe. By leveraging its technological innovations and strategic partnerships, HEXANA aims to play a pivotal role in Europe's energy transition and contribute to global efforts in achieving Net Zero targets.