Prediction: Buying NuScale Right Now Could Make You Richer by 2036
2026-07-31 16:30
•Steven Porrello •The Motley Fool
••••• •• Axe Cap view
Why South African Investors Should Watch NuScale’s Nuclear Bet
NuScale’s small modular reactors could reshape energy demand by 2036, but patience and local context matter.
NuScale’s small modular reactor technology promises to meet booming electricity needs driven by AI and electric vehicles. While this looks exciting globally, South African investors should remember our energy reality. Eskom’s struggles prove that stable, scalable power is a massive challenge. NuScale’s US and Romanian projects show the tech is nearing commercial reality, but local uptake in South Africa is uncertain and likely years away. For investors here, the clearest indirect play is on the rand. Should SMRs start proving their worth, the global energy shift would likely weaken renewable subsidy pressures and could firm commodity markets that support the ZAR, especially if applied to heavy industry. That said, this story is years out and hinges on successful, large-scale deployment — a high bar to clear. Meanwhile, keep an eye on Sasol’s pivot to cleaner energy as a nearer-term, local proxy for the transition ahead. this is just our opinion and not financial advice
Wait and watch NuScale developments cautiously; consider light exposure to Sasol for local energy transition plays. Avoid direct NuScale exposure until clearer commercial proof emerges and global supply chains stabilize.
- SMR (NuScale Energy)
- USD/ZAR
- Sasol
- Delayed commercial deployment of SMRs
- Uncertain South African regulatory support for nuclear technology
6/10
NuScale Power is positioned to benefit from surging electricity demand driven by AI, data centers, and EV adoption. The company has NRC-approved small modular reactor (SMR) technology and two potential first deployments in Romania and the U.S. The author predicts that by 2036, successful deployment will establish confidence in the technology, potentially transforming NuScale into a long-term wealth builder for patient investors willing to hold for a decade.
Our take is based on reporting first published by The Motley Fool.