North's Nuclear Development: Copper Valley Electric Association Explores Micro Modular Nuclear Reactors
In a significant development for Alaska's energy sector, the Copper Valley Electric Association (CVEA) is collaborating with Ultra Safe Nuclear Corporation (USNC) on a feasibility study for a 10-megawatt nuclear generator. This potential project could mark the first civilian microreactor in Alaska, if the results are favourable.
The technology at the heart of this venture is the Micro Modular Reactor (MMR), a fourth-generation nuclear energy system. Known for its inherent safety and scalability, USNC has a trademark design for the MMR energy system. One of the key features of MMR is its ability to shut down by itself and dissipate heat passively while radiation within the core is contained by the fuel itself, a design that ensures 'walk-away safety.'
Each MMR module is rated for 5 megawatts of electricity, and the core fits inside two 40-foot shipping containers. The reactor's core is buried underground, upright, next to a module that circulates helium coolant. The helium transfers heat to molten salt, which drives the generator. The molten salt also enables the system to store heat for later use, providing a flexible power solution.
CVEA, which provides electricity and heat to over 3,800 customers and is not connected to any other utility, approved a strategic plan in 2021 to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels. The company is currently considering Valdez as the site for the potential nuclear power plant.
The study for the potential small-scale nuclear power plant is meant to determine the technical feasibility, social acceptance, location, cost, and operating specifics. If the project progresses, the decommissioning process is expected to take six years to complete. It's important to note that Alaska statutes require spent fuel to be either stored on site or transported out of state.
Nano Nuclear is the company currently planning the installation of an MMR in Alaska, although the specific Alaska site is not explicitly confirmed in the provided documents. Previously, Toshiba had proposed a micro nuclear reactor in Galena, Alaska, but that project stalled without regulatory approval.
The only nuclear power plant to ever operate in Alaska, a 20-megawatt reactor at Fort Greely, is being decommissioned this year. As the state explores cleaner and more sustainable energy options, the potential installation of the MMR could pave the way for a new era in Alaska's energy landscape.
USNC promotes the MMR as being more economical compared to traditional nuclear power plants, making it an attractive proposition for energy providers seeking to reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining cost-effectiveness. With the feasibility study underway, the future of nuclear energy in Alaska is looking promising.
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