Why we're backing America's existing nuclear plants

The US Nuclear Regulatory Commission recently approved the construction of the BWRX-300 small modular reactor, built by GE Vernova Hitachi for Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). The 300MW reactor, currently in its early stages of development, remains pending another license before it can generate electricity commercially. TVA plans to potentially build four BWRX-300 reactors at its Clinch River site.

The US has approved construction of the 300MW small modular reactor as electricity demand from artificial intelligence infrastructure continues to rise. The approval marks a significant regulatory achievement for America's nuclear future, according to Mike Skaggs, TVA's interim president. The reactor utilizes boiling-water technology with natural circulation for cooling and safety design that incorporates gravity, pressure, and stored water to protect certain operating conditions without external power.

The BWRX-300 reactor is designed to be simpler, with fewer components and greater use of manufactured equipment to address construction difficulties. While Britain and Canada are exploring similar reactor technology, the reactor's efficiency in addressing large electricity demands remains unproven in America, where previous large-scale nuclear projects have faced significant delays and cost overruns.