The Salvadoran government is moving forward with the evaluation of potential locations for the country’s first nuclear power plant, according to the General Directorate of Energy, Hydrocarbons and Mines (DGEHM). The initiative is part of a broader strategy to diversify the national energy matrix.

Daniel Álvarez, head of the DGEHM, confirmed that the program has made substantial progress thanks to technical cooperation from the United States and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). “We are already identifying the sites, we already have possible locations for the construction of the plant,” Álvarez said during a televised interview.

El Salvador began its formal transition toward nuclear development in March 2023 through a cooperation agreement with Thorium Energy Alliance, which opened the door to exploring thorium-based energy. Later that year, the Legislative Assembly approved the law creating the official body responsible for implementing the national nuclear program.

In May 2025, the IAEA deployed its first SEED Mission to El Salvador — a specialized technical team tasked with reviewing possible sites for feasibility and safety. The government initially mentioned San Vicente and Chalatenango as potential locations, though officials have not confirmed whether these areas remain under consideration.

The administration maintains its long-term goal of having the country’s first reactor operating by 2030 and training 400 specialists in the field. Currently, 25 Salvadorans are undergoing training, including two studying nuclear engineering abroad, while others specialize in spent fuel management, safety regulations and legal frameworks.

Álvarez also announced that the government is implementing a new agreement to further strengthen cooperation with the United States in training and technological assistance. According to the official, this collaboration intensified after the signing of a memorandum of understanding with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubios.

The government says the initiative has drawn attention from other countries seeking guidance on how to begin their own nuclear energy programs.