First BWRX-300 SMR Construction Permit Issued for Clinch River in the US
The nuclear regulatory authority in the United States has approved the country's first commercial small modular reactor construction permit for the Clinch River site.
The US Nuclear Regulatory Commission has issued the official construction permit for the GE Vernova Hitachi BWRX-300 small modular reactor, which the Tennessee Valley Authority plans to build at the Clinch River site.
Approval of the Construction Permit
The US Nuclear Regulatory Commission officially issued the required construction permit for the reactor planned by the Tennessee Valley Authority. This decision paves the way for the country's first commercial small modular reactor project.
Completion of the Review Process
The regulatory body completed the review process four months ahead of schedule, finishing it in the fourteenth month. Commission director Ho Nieh stated that this decision demonstrates the ability to make reliable safety decisions.
Future Plans and Costs
The Tennessee Valley Authority, a government-owned utility company, has not yet announced a definitive construction date. The company is continuing discussions with industry partners to secure cost-sharing during the design and construction phases.
National Nuclear Future Vision
Mike Skaggs, the company's interim president and CEO, stated that this permit is not merely a regulatory achievement. Matt Rasmussen, chief nuclear officer, emphasized that this process will support US energy leadership.