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Tri-Cities is one of the sites being investigated for a modern nuclear reactor
News Update

Tri-Cities is one of the sites being investigated for a modern nuclear reactor

LINCOLN, Nebraska (KSNB) – Sites near Grand Island, Hastings and Kearney are among 16 communities being considered in the second phase of an NPPD feasibility study for a so-called Small Modular Reactor (SMR).

An NPPD spokesman said an SMR is a newer, more modern type of nuclear reactor that can be sized to meet specific needs. The U.S. Department of Energy says the plants can vary in size and produce between 10 and 100 megawatts of power.

The other locations are near the cities of Beatrice, Brownville, Fremont, Hallam, Holdrege, Lexington, Nebraska City, Norfolk, Plattsmouth, Rushville, Sutherland, Valentine and Wauneta.

In the second phase, the list will be shortened from 16 to two to four sites for further investigation.

The second phase of the study will undertake a more in-depth technical assessment and conduct detailed on-site environmental and constructability assessments based on Nuclear Regulatory Commission criteria. Phase 2 will also involve working with the communities listed as potential candidate sites.

Grand Island Mayor Roger Steele said Thursday, “Grand Island is incredibly honored to be selected as one of 16 sites for this study. This opportunity puts our city at the forefront of research into advanced nuclear technology that can provide significant economic and environmental benefits to our community.”

The study is funded with $1 million originally allocated to the Nebraska Department of Economic Development in 2022. DED then awarded the funds to NPPD. In phase one of the study, NPPD surveyed the entire state for the best potential candidates to host a small modular reactor, a new nuclear technology.

The U.S. Department of Energy produced this video explaining SMRs.

A virtual press conference with Governor Jim Pillen, DED Director KC Belitz and NPPD President/CEO Tom Kent is scheduled for 4 p.m. Friday.

NPPD’s Brownsville reactor is currently the only operating nuclear power plant in Nebraska.

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