Exciting Plans for Nuclear Power at Texas A&M’s Rellis Campus in Bryan!
In Bryan, Texas, there’s a buzz in the air as Texas A&M University is setting its sights on welcoming nuclear energy companies to build reactors at its Rellis Campus. This initiative is part of a larger plan to tackle the burgeoning power supply issues in the Lone Star State. If all goes smoothly with federal approvals, Texas A&M could become the first higher education institution in the nation to hold a commercial nuclear reactor site license!
A Bold Move Towards Nuclear Energy
Touted by Chancellor John Sharp, the university’s leadership believes that adding nuclear power plants is the best answer to address the mounting power needs in Texas. As our state keeps growing, the demand for electricity is expected to nearly double by 2030, creating more strain on the already stretched-thin power grid. This is especially critical as more tech companies set up data centers that require constant, reliable energy supply.
Sharp pointed out the unique position Texas A&M is in. He noted that while discussions about nuclear power might face pushback in other regions—particularly the West Coast and parts of the East Coast—Texas seems to present an open and supportive environment for such initiatives. He further emphasized that existing nuclear facilities on campus, including a 1-megawatt reactor, prove the university’s capability and commitment to this facet of energy production.
The Need for Reliable Power Sources
There’s a real concern among state leaders about the balance of clean energy sources like wind and solar. While these resources are growing quickly, they depend heavily on the weather, which makes grid reliability a tricky issue. For tech giants striving to build energy-demanding data centers while fulfilling their commitments to cut emissions, nuclear energy is increasingly seen as a valuable ally.
But finding suitable locations for new nuclear plants is no small feat. Enter Texas A&M, which aims to become a proving ground for advanced nuclear technology. The university has already kicked off the process by reaching out to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, signaling its intent to seek an early site permit to facilitate construction of reactors on its grounds.
What’s on the Horizon?
According to the plans, the vision is to have around five nuclear reactors, ranging in size from 10 megawatts to 200 megawatts, sprinkled around the sprawling 2,300-acre campus by the early to mid-2030s. Sharp mentioned these reactors would connect to the power grid managed by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT). Just to give you a little perspective, one megawatt can power about 250 Texas homes!
Earlier this year, interest in the project was sparked, with 23 organizations responding to Texas A&M’s inquiry about potentially hosting reactors. Though the university hasn’t revealed which companies are interested, there’s already chatter about projects in the pipeline. Natura Resources, a nuclear company from Abilene, is among those looking to submit proposals.
What Makes These Reactors Special?
Texas A&M is focusing on a specific type of technology—small modular reactors. These are not only smaller in size, making them easier and cheaper to construct compared to traditional reactors, but they’re also marketed as being safer. However, it’s worth noting that some environmental groups and scientists still have their reservations.
A Long Road Ahead
The university’s plans are still in their infancy. Even with an approved site permit, developers will face additional hurdles as they navigate through extensive regulatory approvals. Moreover, aspiring operators will need to tackle the financial feasibility of their projects. An Oregon-based company, NuScale Power, recently pulled back after costs shot up from $3 billion to $9.3 billion, showcasing the substantial financial challenges in the nuclear sector.
To stimulate nuclear development, the Public Utility Commission of Texas is working on a report to present to Governor Greg Abbott by December 1. Meanwhile, the Biden administration has allocated $900 million to support small modular reactors, although it remains uncertain how this initiative will play out under the incoming administration.
For Texas A&M, the journey is just beginning as they look to reshape the power landscape in Texas. The potential for innovation within the nuclear energy sector is thrilling, and the coming years promise to be an exciting time for both the university and state!
