Wedoany.com Report-Aug. 27, TerraPower, a nuclear energy company supported by Bill Gates, has launched an initiative to identify potential sites for a Natrium reactor and energy storage facility in Utah. On August 26, the company signed a memorandum of understanding with the Utah Office of Energy Development (OED) and land developer Flagship Companies to facilitate this exploration, addressing the region’s growing power needs.

TerraPower, with OED and Flagship Companies, aim to provide preliminary site recommendations by the end of 2025.

The agreement supports Utah Governor Spencer Cox’s Operation Gigawatt, a plan to develop a diverse and sustainable energy ecosystem for Utah and the Western United States. The collaboration focuses on evaluating suitable locations for the Natrium reactor, with preliminary site recommendations expected by the end of 2025. The selection process will assess community support, site characteristics, licensing feasibility from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and access to existing infrastructure. Flagship Companies will provide land data to aid in identifying viable sites.

Governor Cox stated: “Operation Gigawatt is about adding capacity from diverse sources — nuclear, natural gas, geothermal and more — so families and businesses have power that is affordable, reliable and clean. This agreement with TerraPower will help keep rates low, strengthen our grid and ensure Utah’s future can be as strong as our past.”

The Natrium technology, developed by TerraPower, features a 345-megawatt sodium-cooled fast reactor paired with a molten salt-based energy storage system. This design allows the reactor to boost output to 500MW during peak demand while maintaining stable base power. Compared to traditional light water reactors, it uses significantly less water and can quickly adjust power levels. TerraPower began constructing its first Natrium project in Wyoming in 2024.

TerraPower President and CEO Chris Levesque stated: “TerraPower is excited to collaborate with Utah leaders and communities to explore how Natrium plants can help Utah achieve its economic and energy goals. Our Natrium reactor and energy storage system are well-suited for the Mountain West, and will play a vital role in ensuring a reliable grid for future generations.”

This initiative aligns with Utah’s goal of building a resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure. By exploring Natrium reactor sites, TerraPower aims to contribute to a reliable power supply that supports economic growth and environmental objectives. The partnership with OED and Flagship Companies strengthens the foundation for advancing clean energy solutions in the region, positioning Utah as a hub for innovative nuclear technology.