Former licensing experts from the ITER fusion project and Pallas reactor join Thorizon

On July 1st Antoine Claisse and Marco Visser join Thorizon. Both experts have a background that is unique in the sector. Antoine was responsible for the safety and nuclear licensing of the ITER fusion reactor in the South of France, but also has experience as an entrepreneur and working at CEA and IRSN. Marco led licensing and compliance for the Pallas reactor, the isotope reactor currently under construction in the Netherlands and most recently worked for the Ministry of Economic Affairs in the Netherlands on environmental impact analyses for nuclear energy.

The arrival of Antoine & Marco marks a new phase for Thorizon. The reactor concept moves from paper to realization in a phased approach. Engagements with the nuclear authorities in France and the Netherlands start to gain momentum and the first feasibility studies for the Thorizon One reactor are being planned.
“We are humbled that Antoine & Marco with their unique expertise joined Thorizon. Guaranteeing nuclear safety and substantiating evidence of safety under all circumstances is our number one priority. The Thorizon One is walk-away safe by design, at the same time it is an innovative reactor concept, and we need to comply with the existing regulatory framework, this is why the roles of Antoine and Marco are crucial for our development” says Kiki Lauwers (CEO).
As Director of Safety and Licensing Antoine will lead the development of the Thorizon One concept in the domains of safety and nuclear licensing, with the aim of obtaining authorization to operate the reactor. In this role Antoine will be an architect in the field of safety, acting as an interface between the authorities, internal teams and partners of Thorizon.
Antoine Claisse adds “The concept of MSRs and Thorizon's cartridge system caught my technical interest. What truly impressed me was the enthusiasm of the team. I knew I wanted to be part of this innovative project. I look forward to ensuring the Thorizon One reactor meets all safety and licensing requirements, engaging with the nuclear authorities, and fostering a robust safety culture within the team.”
Marco joins as Licensing and Regulatory Affairs Manager, he will lead licensing and environmental permit processes for the Thorizon One. In this role he will play a pivotal role in identifying and advancing locations for the construction of the Thorizon and liaise with stakeholders of national and regional governments.
Marco: “I truly believe that Thorizon can and will be the first MSR operated in the Netherlands. All elements are in place to make this happen: a smart and safe design overcoming the challenges of the past, and a knowledgeable and committed team. For me, I will do my utmost to make this project a success and look forward to meeting you all.”