Work has started on the Natrium nuclear demonstration project, which will use digital construction tools to deliver a first-of-its kind next-generation reactor
The project in Kemmerer, Wyoming, represents the first advanced nuclear reactor to be built in the Western hemisphere. It is being developed by TerraPower, a nuclear innovation company chaired by Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates.
Digital construction tools will be used to build the unique Natrium system. It features a 345-megawatt fast reactor cooled by sodium technology rather than water, with a molten salt-based energy storage system.
The storage technology can boost the system’s output to 500 megawatts when needed, enough to power around 400,000 homes.
The energy storage capability allows the plant to integrate seamlessly with renewable resources.
Upon completion, the Natrium demonstration plant will be a fully functioning commercial power plant. It is being constructed near a retiring coal-fired power plant and is the only coal-to-nuclear project under development in the world.
Speaking at the groundbreaking, Terrapower chairman Bill Gates said: “I’m proud of all the partners and people who helped get the most advanced nuclear project in the world built in Kemmerer, Wyoming. I believe that TerraPower’s next-generation nuclear energy will power the future of our nation – and the world.”
Construction optimized at every stage
Bechtel is the engineering, procurement and construction partner on the project.
Craig Albert, Bechtel president and COO, said: “The Natrium reactor’s innovative design will launch a new approach to nuclear plant construction that is designed to be safer, cleaner, faster and more efficient than many energy source alternatives.
“Working together, the combination of advanced technology and streamlined constructability has the potential to diversify the US power generation industry. The option of deploying smaller advanced nuclear plants that can work in concert with other clean energy sources will help speed our progress toward net zero emissions.
“TerraPower extended their visionary approach to the building of the plant itself. Their involvement of Bechtel from the very beginning means the entire project lifecycle, including construction, has been optimized at every stage, making the entire process cost-effective, fast and repeatable.
“Natrium will be the first nuclear project where the execution of those plans will benefit from Bechtel’s suite of digital tools and systems, which have been proven to deliver exceptional results on other large energy facilities.”
Approximately 1,600 workers will be needed for construction at the project’s peak. Construction is expected to span five years.
The project is part of the US Department of Energy’s Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program.
