The PBMR design is aimed at process-heat applications utilising steam at temperatures of up to 750C, which provide the basis for penetrating the nuclear heat market as a viable alternative for carbon-burning, high- emission heat sources. Heat from the PBMR can be used for a variety of industrial process applications, including process steam for cogeneration applications, in-situ oil sands recovery, ethanol applications, refinery and petrochemical applications. PBMR reported that the reality of the global economic downturn and the immediate funding challenge of meeting South Africa's energy needs are threats to the SA local nuclear industry, and specifically to PBMR.