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Bill Gates begins groundbreaking nuclear project in Wyoming
Bill Gates has started construction on an advanced nuclear power plant in Wyoming, aiming to transform power generation.
In short:
- Gates' TerraPower is building a sodium-cooled nuclear reactor at a site next to PacifiCorp’s Naughton Power Plant, which will phase out coal and natural gas by 2036.
- The $4 billion project, partially funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, aims for a 2030 completion but faces delays due to fuel supply issues.
- The reactor promises to provide carbon-free energy and may also supply industrial heat, potentially revolutionizing high-heat industrial processes.
Key quote:
“This is a big step toward safe, abundant, zero-carbon energy. And it’s important for the future of this country that projects like this succeed.”
— Bill Gates, chairman of TerraPower
Why this matters:
Unlike intermittent renewable energy sources, nuclear power can provide continuous, baseload power, which is essential for maintaining grid stability and meeting consistent energy demands.
Critics raise concerns about the safety and cost-effectiveness of nuclear power. Despite the advancements, they point to the challenges of nuclear waste management and the high initial investment required for such projects.
Related EHN coverage:
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Feds field questions about Wyoming's first nuclear power plant
Before it can build a nuclear power plant, TerraPower must build a thorough case for feds to permit it, which includes public scrutiny.
IAEA Imagebank/Flickr
America's new nuclear power industry has a Russian problem
U.S. firms developing a new generation of small nuclear power plants to help cut carbon emissions have a big problem: only one company sells the fuel they need, and it's Russian.
Oregon regulators question nuclear schedule for Kemmerer
TerraPower plans to build the first-of-its-kind "advanced" Natrium nuclear power plant next to the Naughton coal-fired power plant in Kemmerer, which will be decommissioned before the nuclear plant goes online in 2028.
Amended nuclear power bill advances in Wyoming Senate with unresolved issues
Concerns remain about the Natrium nuclear power plant’s reliance on a Russian enrichment facility for fuel.
Dave Dodson: In Wyoming’s energy strategy, let’s say yes to nukes
Wyoming has a momentous opportunity to position itself as the Silicon Valley for nuclear power, Dodson opines.
Chris Boland / www.chrisboland.com
Kerry Drake: The dubious track record of ‘new’ nuclear technology
Will safety and economic problems that shut down similar reactors, Drake wonders, follow the industry to Wyoming?
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