TerraPower Secures Key Contracts for Next-Generation Nuclear Reactors
TerraPower, Bill Gates’ nuclear energy venture, has made significant strides in its mission to develop advanced nuclear reactors. The company has been selected to negotiate a contract for the Versatile Test Reactor (VTR) and is advancing its Natrium reactor design, which aims to provide reliable, carbon-free energy.
Key Takeaways
- TerraPower is a finalist to design and build the Versatile Test Reactor (VTR) in Idaho.
- The VTR is a federally funded project designed to test advanced nuclear reactor technologies.
- TerraPower is collaborating with GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy on the Natrium reactor system.
- The Natrium system features sodium fast reactors and molten-salt energy storage.
- Bill Gates expressed confidence in TerraPower’s ability to execute the challenging projects.
Advancing the Versatile Test Reactor
TerraPower, as part of an industry team led by Bechtel National Inc., has been chosen to begin contract negotiations for the design and construction of the Versatile Test Reactor (VTR). This U.S. Department of Energy facility is crucial for testing new nuclear reactor technologies. The project is slated to commence in 2021, with a target completion date of 2026. Mark Peters, director of the Idaho National Laboratory, highlighted the strong industry proposals received, indicating significant support for establishing a fast-spectrum neutron testing facility in the United States.
The Innovative Natrium Reactor System
In parallel, TerraPower is working with GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy to develop the Natrium reactor architecture. This innovative system is designed to complement renewable energy sources like solar and wind by providing a consistent, always-on electricity supply. The Natrium system integrates cost-competitive sodium fast reactors with molten-salt energy storage. The stored heat from the 345-megawatt reactors can be converted into electricity, effectively smoothing out the intermittent nature of renewable energy generation. TerraPower anticipates the Natrium technology will be commercially available in the late 2020s.
Bill Gates’ Endorsement and Future Outlook
Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft and chairman of TerraPower, has voiced strong support for the company’s ambitious plans. While acknowledging the significant challenges ahead, Gates expressed his belief in TerraPower’s team, citing their expertise, commercial experience, and necessary resources. Following the discontinuation of a previous plan to build a demonstration reactor in China due to U.S.-China policy shifts, TerraPower is now focusing on the U.S. market. Gates has indicated a willingness to invest substantial private capital, contingent on increased congressional support for nuclear technology development. The recent passage of the Nuclear Energy Leadership Act by the U.S. Senate, pending House approval, signals a potential shift towards greater government backing for nuclear innovation.
Broader Advancements in Nuclear Technology
TerraPower’s progress occurs alongside other positive developments in the nuclear sector. Oregon-based NuScale Power recently announced that the Nuclear Regulatory Commission has completed the final review phase for its small modular nuclear reactor (SMR) design certification. This milestone allows customers to proceed with developing NuScale power plants with the assurance of NRC-approved safety aspects. NuScale has already secured agreements with prospective customers in several countries, including the U.S., Canada, Romania, the Czech Republic, and Jordan, underscoring a growing global interest in advanced nuclear solutions.
