Bill Gates-Backed 345 MWe Advanced Nuclear Reactor Secures Crucial US Approval

Bill Gates-backed TerraPower's Natrium reactor project in Wyoming has achieved a significant regulatory milestone. The US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) completed its Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for Kemmerer Unit 1. The NRC found no adverse impacts from the project, recommending the issuance of a construction permit. This makes the Natrium project the first advanced commercial nuclear power plant in the US to pass this environmental review. The design features an 840 MW (thermal) pool-type reactor linked to a molten salt energy storage system. This innovative storage allows the plant to maintain steady output and act like a large battery. It can store heat and increase output to 500 MWe during peak demand, providing grid support. TerraPower claims this capability is unique among advanced reactor designs. The Natrium plant is intended to replace power from retiring coal facilities in the area. While nuclear component regulation continues, non-nuclear construction began in June 2024. The project is a public-private partnership with the U.S. Energy Department. A final safety evaluation is expected by December 31, 2025.