Virginia’s primary utility company announced on Wednesday its plans to consider using small nuclear reactors to help fulfill the increasing demand for electricity and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This move is part of a broader trend of states shifting away from traditional fossil fuels like coal and oil towards cleaner energy options, with nuclear power seen as an appealing alternative. Proponents suggest that the new generation of smaller reactors will be more cost-effective and quicker to deploy.

While small modular reactors (SMRs) are not currently operational in the United States according to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, efforts are underway to explore their potential. Dominion Energy Virginia disclosed its request for SMR companies to assess the feasibility of a project at the site of its existing North Anna nuclear power plant near Richmond. CEO Robert Blue highlighted that nuclear power already contributes 90% of Virginia’s carbon-free electricity, in compliance with the state’s target to achieve 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050.

Despite some setbacks, such as the termination of a project in Idaho last year due to cost overruns and insufficient subscribers, interest in SMRs is on the rise. Bill Gates and his energy company are planning to construct a commercial SMR plant in Wyoming, while a pilot project is progressing in Tennessee. Various companies are in discussions with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission regarding different SMR designs and potential future projects.

However, opposition to SMRs exists, particularly among environmentalists, citing concerns about costs, safety, and nuclear waste storage. A recent study discovered that SMRs might produce more waste than traditional reactors. Despite these challenges, advocates argue that embracing new technologies like SMRs is crucial for meeting future energy needs, alongside wind and solar power. The landscape of energy generation is evolving, with the potential for SMRs to play a significant role in the transition to cleaner and more sustainable power sources.