Goodbye Coal, Hello Nuclear: U.S. Government Plans to Convert More Than 400 Coal Plants Into SMR Nuclear Facilities

The Biden administration aims to deploy 200 GW to increase nuclear capacity.

November 22, 2024, 09:01 ET

Alba Otero

Writer

“Observe, listen, and reflect” is my journalistic mantra. This philosophy guides me daily and ensures I produce quality journalism. My restlessness has led me explore new areas, such as sustainability and the energy transition, which are crucial to our future. In addition, I’ve also dabbled in street photography, an art that allows me to capture the essence of journalism in action.

At the beginning of the year, fourth-generation small modular reactors (SMRs) were still in the development stages in the U.S. The new roadmap, put in place before President-elect Donald Trump takes office, focuses on how to develop nuclear power at old coal plants.

More than 400 coal plants. The Biden administration aims to deploy 200 GW to increase its nuclear capacity. A study by the Department of Energy analyzed 400 coal power plants, finding that nearly 80% have the potential to host SMRs.

Various planned constructions include large light water reactors, SMRs, and microreactors, along with Gen III and IV reactors. The plans also include modernizing existing reactors and restarting retired reactors that were taken offline for economic reasons.

Current status. The U.S. currently operates 94 reactors, consisting of large light water reactors that utilize low-enriched uranium fuel on a gigawatt scale.

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Sites at former nuclear power plants. The U.S. roadmap is also focusing on repurposing former nuclear power plant sites. Another investigation by the DOE has identified 41 locations with the necessary land, water, and other conditions to support up to 60 GW of new large reactors. These sites include both operating and retired reactors.

Enriched uranium. In the effort to enhance nuclear capabilities, there’s a critical question regarding uranium supplies. If Canada continues to develop its uranium deposits and processing capabilities, it could become a valuable ally for the U.S. On the other hand, if this doesn’t happen, the future of U.S. alliances with Russia and China under the Trump administration remains uncertain.

The future of energy. Following Trump’s election victory, many experts have analyzed the future of energy policies. So far, the president-elect has appointed Chris Wright, the Liberty Energy CEO and a fracking advocate, to lead the DOE. This decision underscores a potential emphasis on nuclear power, considering that Wright has supported companies in the nuclear sector like Oklo.

However, until Trump takes office in January, it’s unclear how the American energy landscape will evolve.

Image | Lukáš Lehotský

Related | The U.S. and Europe Are Interested in Nuclear Energy Again. The Problem: They Depend on Russia

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