There is a need for power across the United States, and Texas A&M is stepping up to the plate. According to a release from Texas A&M University, the school system intends to bring more nuclear power to the state of Texas’ electrical grid.
The University will offer land near campus to nuclear reactor companies, allowing them to build small modular reactors (SMRs). Before, reactor manufacturers hadn’t found suitable places for clusters of reactors – a requirement for energy-hungry endeavours including data centers and AI projects.
“Plain and simple: the United States needs more power,” Chancellor John Sharp said. “And nowhere in the country, other than Texas, is anyone willing to step up and build the power plants we need. Thanks to the leadership of Gov. Greg Abbott and others in Texas state government, Texas A&M System stands ready to step up and do what is necessary for the country to thrive.”
The four nuclear companies that have agreed to work with the Texas A&M system are Kairos Power, Natura Resources, Terrestrial Energy, and Aalo Atomics. It’s part of an aptly named project: “The Energy Proving Ground”. These reactors could be built within five years, and supply plenty of power to ERCOT.
Mike Laufer, co-founder and CEO of Kairos Power, announced, “We are excited about the momentum for new nuclear deployment at Texas A&M-RELLIS and its potential to support U.S. energy security and continued economic growth. We look forward to collaborating with the Texas A&M System to advance Kairos Power’s clean energy mission and play a new role in developing the nation’s future nuclear workforce.”
Leaders from Natura Resources, Terrestrial Energy, and Aalo Atomics agreed with Laufer’s announcement.
“We plan to showcase how our technology can address the energy needs of Texas and the nation,” added Douglass Robison, founder and CEO of Natura Resources.
Texas A&M System officials noted they have a streamlined regulatory process, ensuring these four companies can have their reactors operational as quickly as possible. That includes an application with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission for an Early Site Permit.
Laufer’s announcement concluded: “This project at Texas A&M-RELLIS is part of the Texas A&M System’s broader commitment to advancing nuclear research, education and energy production. System officials believe the Energy Proving Ground will position the Texas A&M System as a leader in sustainable, advanced energy solutions to meet the growing energy demands of the world.”
Informational sources from KBTX3.
