Tennessee Valley Authority applies to build first US BWRX-300 reactor

Craig Ranson, President and CEO of GE Vernova Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GVH), stated, "TVA's investment in the standard design of the BWRX-300 technology will accelerate its deployment, helping meet the rising demand for energy and enhancing energy security." He added that the application, alongside Ontario's recent approval of a similar project, confirms the BWRX-300's readiness for deployment.

TVA's engagement is part of a collaborative initiative that includes Ontario Power Generation (OPG), Synthos Green Energy, and GVH, focused on advancing the standardized BWRX-300 design. TVA is also spearheading a coalition seeking $800 million in Department of Energy funding to fast-track the reactor's construction.

Global interest in the BWRX-300 continues to expand. Earlier this month, OPG and the Province of Ontario confirmed the start of construction for the first BWRX-300 at the Darlington site near Toronto. Plans call for four units at the location, with the initial unit expected to be completed by the decade's end.

Additional U.S. utilities are moving to adopt the technology. In January, Duke Energy announced its participation in efforts to further develop and license the BWRX-300, while American Electric Power named the design for potential use at the Indiana Michigan Power Rockport Plant, contingent on federal funding approval.

The BWRX-300 SMR offers approximately 300 megawatts of carbon-free electricity-enough to power 300,000 homes. Its modular design aims to streamline construction and reduce costs compared to traditional reactors, while delivering improved safety and efficiency.