Texas A&M is stepping into the future of clean energy with a new project aimed at boosting the state’s nuclear power capacities.
The university system is partnering with four leading companies to bring small modular reactors (SMRs) to its RELLIS campus in Bryan. The project, called “The Energy Proving Ground,” aims to help Texas meet the growing demand for reliable, carbon-free electricity, according to a press release.
The four companies involved, Kairos Power, Natura Resources, Terrestrial Energy, and Aalo Atomics, will all work together to build the SMRs. According to Texas A&M, the new reactors, expected to be operational within five years, could supply energy to Texas’ Electric Reliability Council grid, helping to stabilize power production across the Lone Star State.
School officials have streamlined the regulation process to get the reactors up and running as soon as possible.
Chancellor John Sharp spoke on the growing demand for energy resources and the university’s unique position to lead the way in nuclear energy production:
“Plain and simple: the United States needs more power. And nowhere in the country, other than Texas, is anyone willing to step up and build the power plants we need.”
“Thanks to the leadership of Gov. Greg Abbott and others in Texas state government, Texas A&M System stands ready to step up and do what is necessary for the country to thrive,” Sharp added.
School officials believe the project will change the way that America as a whole consumes energy.
“The agreements that the Texas A&M System has with Kairos, Natura, Terrestrial and Aalo are going to change the energy landscape for the whole country,” said Joe Elabd, vice chancellor for research at the Texas A&M System.
“The Energy Proving Ground will allow these companies to safely test their SMRs and set the stage for deploying small nuclear reactors across the country.”