tech
Small nuclear reactors could be operational by 2030, chief regulator says
The chief federal regulator in charge of licensing new facilities said the United States could see advanced reactors deployed and generating power by 2030, adding to the nuclear energy revival.
TL;DR
- The U.S. could see advanced reactors generating power by 2030, according to NRC Chairman Ho K. Nieh.
- The NRC has granted a construction permit for the Kemmerer Power Station Unit 1 in Wyoming, featuring a 345-megawatt small modular reactor (SMR).
- SMRs have a smaller footprint and can be built closer to grids, potentially accelerating deployment.
- The Trump administration supported advanced nuclear technology through the Energy Department's Pilot Reactor Program to meet energy demand from facilities like data centers.
- Antares Nuclear's Mark-0 reactor achieved criticality, a key milestone for advanced reactors, with plans for electricity production in 2027 and deployment at military installations in 2028.
- Projects could be expedited through collaboration with the Energy and War departments, especially for military applications.