TerraPower initiates construction of pioneering natrium reactor in Wyoming

TerraPower, a leading nuclear innovation company, marked a significant milestone with the commencement of construction on the Natrium reactor demonstration project in Kemmerer, Wyoming. This event signifies the transition of the Natrium reactor from design to construction, making it the first advanced reactor of its kind to reach this stage globally.

Groundbreaking Development in Nuclear Technology

The Natrium reactor, a collaboration between TerraPower and GE Hitachi, introduces a 345 MW sodium-cooled fast reactor enhanced by a molten salt-based energy storage system. This innovative configuration allows the reactor to increase its output to 500 MW during peak demand, sufficient to power approximately 400,000 homes. Notably, this is the only advanced reactor design incorporating such a unique energy storage feature, enabling it to integrate seamlessly with renewable energy sources.

Chris Levesque, President and CEO of TerraPower, emphasized the reactor’s significance during the groundbreaking ceremony: “This groundbreaking represents the beginning of the next era of nuclear energy. The Natrium reactor is more than a design; it’s a plant coming to life that will support both the clean energy transition and our historic energy communities. Our innovative Natrium technology will provide dispatchable carbon-free energy, gigawatt-scale energy storage, and long-term jobs to the Lincoln County community.”

Public and Private Sector Collaboration

The project has garnered support from various sectors, including government officials, industry champions, and community supporters. Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon highlighted the local and national benefits: “This first-of-its-kind project is good for the community of Kemmerer-Diamondville, the State of Wyoming, and our nation. As Natrium moves boldly toward establishing a new domestic energy source, it offers the promise of hundreds of jobs, enhanced careers, and renewed vitality.”

Bill Gates, TerraPower Chairman and Founder, also expressed his pride in the project: “I’m proud of all the partners and people who helped get the most advanced nuclear project in the world built in Kemmerer, Wyoming. I believe that TerraPower’s next-generation nuclear energy will power the future of our nation—and the world.”

Enhancing U.S. Energy Security and Innovation

The construction of the Natrium plant is set to last five years, requiring approximately 1,600 workers at its peak, and once operational, will employ around 250 people for day-to-day activities including plant security. This effort not only brings a new commercial advanced nuclear reactor online but also plays a crucial role in transitioning away from traditional coal power, as it is built near a retiring coal-fired plant.

Craig Albert, President and COO of Bechtel, reflected on the construction approach: “The Natrium reactor’s innovative design will launch a new approach to nuclear plant construction that is designed to be safer, cleaner, faster, and more efficient than many energy source alternatives.”

A Step Towards Sustainable Energy

Through the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program (ARDP), a public-private partnership, the Natrium project aims to validate the design, construction, and operational features of this groundbreaking technology. The project’s success could pave the way for future deployments of smaller advanced nuclear plants, supporting the U.S.’s progress toward net-zero emissions.