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600 MW Nuclear Plant with Small Reactors Set for Construction in the US

Atomic station with small reactors
Новий ядерний об'єкт потужністю 600 МВт з малими реакторами планують збудувати в Сполучених Штатах. Photo: НВ — Техно

Elementl Plans to Build a Nuclear Facility in Ohio

According to НВ — Техно: Elementl has announced its intention to construct a nuclear power plant in Ohio, United States, featuring small modular BWRX-300 reactors. The company submitted a request to regional grid operator PJM Interconnection to connect 600 megawatts of capacity to the national power grid. The proposed site spans 700 acres along the Ohio River, roughly 160 kilometers southeast of Columbus.

As part of this initiative, Elementl has entered into an agreement with GE Vernova Hitachi Nuclear Energy to carry out preliminary work. Construction of the first reactor unit is expected to begin in 2030, with completion targeted for 2034. The company plans to fully fund the project using private capital. However, moving forward depends on securing approvals from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the Ohio Power Siting Board.

Nuclear projects are becoming a major economic foundation for communities, and southeastern Ohio-with its industrial heritage and skilled workforce-has everything needed for a project of this scale.

Chris Colbert, Chairman and CEO of Elementl

Additionally, in 2025, the Tennessee Valley Authority signed an agreement with Elementl to advance the installation of a BWRX-300 reactor at the Clinch River site in Tennessee, which includes accelerating the construction of additional reactor units in coordination with Indiana Michigan Power. Elementl Power aims to add over 100 gigawatts of carbon-free electricity to the U.S. grid by 2050.

PJM Interconnection is expected to provide an official response to Elementl's application by the end of this year.

Nuclear Energy Expansion in the United States

The growth of nuclear energy in the U.S., particularly through small modular reactor projects, highlights increasing interest in carbon-free power sources. Building new nuclear plants could play a key role in achieving energy independence and cutting carbon emissions, which is especially relevant amid global efforts to combat climate change. The outcome of Elementl's application with PJM Interconnection is expected to significantly influence the future of nuclear energy development in the region.

As the U.S. continues to explore innovative energy solutions, recent developments highlight a notable trend in the energy sector. For instance, Texas is set to introduce a hybrid power plant that integrates both natural gas and nuclear energy, showcasing a growing commitment to diversifying energy sources. This shift towards modernized energy infrastructure is essential as the nation aims for a sustainable future.

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