ABB has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SimGenics, a specialist in plant simulation technologies, to collaborate on engineering and training solutions for the nuclear energy sector across North America. This partnership focuses on the development and deployment of simulators that support both conventional and next-generation nuclear facilities.
As the United States and Canada push forward with national energy strategies that include expanding nuclear power, this collaboration aims to provide simulation platforms for large nuclear plants, small modular reactors (SMRs), and advanced modular reactors (AMRs). These simulation tools will serve both as design-stage test environments and as on-site training systems to support daily operations.
The agreement enables ABB and SimGenics to jointly develop full-plant process models and control system simulations. These solutions can be installed at research centers or directly within operating nuclear plants to enhance training, engineering analysis, and performance verification.
Government initiatives in both countries have identified nuclear energy as a key element of future energy plans. The U.S. Department of Energy is supporting the deployment of next-gen nuclear technologies to meet growing electricity demand while ensuring grid reliability. Meanwhile, Canada’s federal SMR Action Plan is driving the advancement of modular nuclear solutions as part of a balanced, low-carbon energy mix.
“Nuclear energy plays a vital role in providing dependable, carbon-free power to meet rising demand,” said Per Erik Holsten, President of ABB’s Energy Industries division. “Working together with SimGenics, we aim to strengthen the development of new nuclear capacity through advanced training and engineering simulation.”
Under the terms of the MoU, ABB will deliver automation, electrification, and digital systems for non-critical parts of nuclear plants. The company will also offer ongoing service support through its ABB Care program. SimGenics will contribute by supplying simulators for engineering, control system validation, and workforce training.
These simulators will use process models that reflect the real-time behavior of nuclear systems. By combining SimGenics’ simulation tools with ABB’s automation platform—specifically the System 800xA Simulator—users can build highly realistic operational environments that replicate control system functionality for both learning and testing.
“Simulation is central to building the skills and systems needed in today’s evolving nuclear landscape,” said Francois Laubscher, Chief Operating Officer at SimGenics. “This collaboration will help strengthen safety, performance, and readiness in both current and future nuclear projects.”
These virtual systems allow operators and engineers to gain hands-on experience in safe environments, test control system responses, reduce risk, and detect operational issues early. This contributes to higher safety standards, fewer equipment failures, and reduced chances of unplanned outages.
ABB brings more than a century of experience in electrification and automation, with around 110,000 employees worldwide. Its Process Automation business supports essential industries including energy, marine, and manufacturing, helping them operate more efficiently and sustainably through digital and engineering solutions.
