TVA Seeks Historic Permit for Nation’s First Small Modular Reactor

September 16, 2025

The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) has taken a significant step towards deploying advanced nuclear energy by submitting a construction permit application to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for one of the nation’s first Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). This move, centered at TVA’s Clinch River site near Oak Ridge, Tennessee, could pave the way for wider adoption of SMR technology across the United States.

Key Takeaways

TVA is the first U.S. utility to apply for a construction permit for an SMR.
The proposed reactor utilizes GE Vernova Hitachi’s BWRX-300 design.
The project aims to enhance energy security and provide reliable electricity.
The NRC’s review is a crucial step before construction can begin.

A Milestone for Nuclear Energy

TVA’s application marks a pivotal moment in the advancement of nuclear power in the U.S. The utility is pioneering the use of GE Vernova Hitachi’s BWRX-300 design, a 300-megawatt-electric advanced light-water system. This SMR is a smaller, simplified version of existing reactor technology, designed to leverage established supply chains for potentially faster deployment.

The Clinch River Project

The proposed SMR will be located at TVA’s Clinch River site, an area already deemed suitable for a new nuclear plant by the NRC, with capacity for up to four small reactors. TVA has already secured the nation’s first and only early site permit for an SMR, supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, which cleared the environmental review process. The next phase involves a comprehensive safety review by the NRC before construction can commence.

Potential Impact and Future Outlook

TVA President and CEO Don Moul stated that by being the first to navigate this process, TVA aims to create a clear path for other utilities interested in deploying SMRs. This initiative is seen as crucial for meeting the growing electricity demand from sectors like data centers and AI, while also bolstering energy security and reliability. While preliminary site preparation could begin as early as next year, the NRC’s full safety review is the critical next step. Some critics have raised concerns about potential safety implications due to political pressure to expedite the review process, but TVA emphasizes the safety and efficiency advantages of SMRs, including a smaller footprint and reduced impact on surrounding communities compared to traditional nuclear plants.

Global Context and Technological Advancements

The BWRX-300 design is also being pursued by Ontario Power Generation (OPG) in Canada, with plans for four reactors at its Darlington site, expected to be operational by the end of 2029. This global collaboration highlights the growing international interest in SMR technology as a source of clean, firm power. The development of SMRs is seen as a key strategy to meet future energy needs, driven by bipartisan support for nuclear power and its role in decarbonization efforts.