By Martijn Berk, Advisor in Governance and Sustainable Development, the Netherlands

Access to clean water and reliable energy remains one of the defining challenges of our time. A promising solution lies in combining two existing technologies in a new, integrated way: thorium-based nuclear energy and reverse osmosis desalination. Together, these technologies can form a scalable and locally adaptable response to growing global water stress.

Reverse osmosis is a widely used technology that removes salt and impurities from seawater or brackish water by pushing it through a semi-permeable membrane. It is already deployed across many regions, contributing directly to SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation). However, its broader application is often constrained by the need for a stable and continuous energy supply.

This is where thorium-based energy becomes relevant. Thorium can be used in advanced nuclear reactor designs that are inherently safer than traditional systems and produce less long-lived radioactive waste. Moreover, thorium fuel cycles offer strong non-proliferation characteristics, aligning with international security objectives. As such, thorium-based systems contribute not only to SDG 7 (affordable and clean energy), but also indirectly support SDG 16 (peace, justice and strong institutions) by reducing proliferation risks.

The core concept is to co-locate thorium-based energy generation with reverse osmosis facilities at the local level. By integrating these systems, regions can produce freshwater and energy simultaneously, tailored to their specific geographic and economic conditions. This localized model enhances resilience and reduces dependence on large, centralized infrastructure networks.

Such an approach is particularly relevant for water-stressed regions, coastal areas, and rapidly urbanizing environments. Producing freshwater close to the point of use reduces the need for extensive transport infrastructure, lowering costs and increasing efficiency. At the same time, reliable energy supply ensures continuous desalination operations, even in regions where energy grids are unstable or underdeveloped.

This integrated model also aligns with SDG 9 (industry, innovation and infrastructure) by promoting advanced technological solutions and encouraging the development of new infrastructure systems that are both resilient and sustainable. Furthermore, by enabling access to water and energy in underserved regions, it supports SDG 13 (climate action) through climate adaptation strategies and reduced environmental stress.

While thorium-based energy is not yet commercially deployed at large scale, several countries, including China, India, the Netherlands, Norway, and the US, are making significant progress in its development. This creates a strategic window of opportunity. Policymakers and regulatory bodies can use this time to establish frameworks that facilitate safe deployment, licensing, and international cooperation.

In this context, early alignment between technology development, regulatory planning, and financial investment will be essential. International organizations, governments, and private sector actors all have a role to play in ensuring that such integrated systems can be deployed effectively and responsibly.

Looking ahead, the combination of thorium energy and reverse osmosis has the potential to evolve from concept to implementation within the coming years. By focusing on local deployment, strong regulatory foundations, and alignment with global sustainability goals, this approach offers a practical pathway toward long-term water and energy security.