Latest news with #DeepFission
Malaysian Reserve
23-07-2025
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
Nuclear Energy Newcomers Electrify Final Day of EnerCom's 30th Anniversary Energy Investment Conference
Five Nuclear Companies to Present at EnerCom Denver – The Energy Investment Conference Qualified Investors, Analysts and Energy Industry Professionals Can Register at No Cost at DENVER, July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — EnerCom, Inc., a leading energy consulting and strategic communications firm, announces an unprecedented lineup of nuclear energy companies scheduled to present on Wednesday, August 20, the final day of the 2025 EnerCom Denver Conference. The event, now in its 30th year, is the largest independent energy investment conference in the U.S., connecting capital with traditional and emerging energy companies from around the world. The nuclear company lineup for the conference includes: Oklo (NYSE: OKLO) Oklo deploys sodium fast reactors using recycled nuclear waste and down blended fissionable material, or High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium fuel to generate electricity. Its commercial Aurora power plant is engineered to produce 75 megawatts. Oklo has a DOE site permit for its first reactor at the Idaho National Labs with plans for commercial operation by 2028. The company's acquisition of Atomic Alchemy also allows Oklo to produce radioisotopes critical for medical and defense applications. Energy Fuels (NYSE: UUUU; TSE: EFR) Denver-based Energy Fuels is a global leader in critical minerals with a 45-year legacy in U.S. uranium mining and production. The company operates three active U.S. mines, including the high-grade Arizona Pinyon Plain mine, and processes ore at its White Mesa Mill in Utah—the only operational conventional uranium mill in the country. The Mill also handles vanadium and is exploring medical isotope extraction for cancer treatment. The company is also processing both light and heavy rare earth elements from U.S.-sourced monazite and developing three global heavy mineral sand mines to produce up to 60,000 tonnes of rare earth feedstock as a by-product of titanium and zircon mining. Deep Isolation Deep Isolation is the first company to commercialize nuclear waste disposal in deep boreholes, offering tailored solutions to help countries manage and dispose of waste inventories. With 87 patents, its technology uses proven drilling methods to safely isolate waste underground in horizontal, vertical, or slanted boreholes. The Universal Canister System (UCS), developed through a three-year ARPA-E-funded project, supports integrated management of spent fuel and high-level waste from advanced reactors across storage, transport, and disposal. Deep Fission Privately held Deep Fission applies state-of-the-art borehole technology to site Small Modular Reactors one mile underground, an approach that strengthens safety, minimizes construction and operating surface impacts and costs (e.g. eliminating large containment structures), all while delivering electricity at an estimated 5-7 cents/kWh. With partner Endeavour Energy, Deep Fission's goal is to deliver 2 GW of power for AI-ready data centers by 2029. The company is in the pre-licensing stage with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Solestiss Solestiss provides strategic advisory services to help clients navigate the evolving energy landscape, supporting decision-making across strategy, market positioning, and operations. As an Energy Developer, Solestiss accelerates access to baseload power while mitigating budget risks by leveraging nuclear and energy infrastructure expertise and natural gas solutions to drive project success. EnerCom Denver Investor Conference Details In its 30th year, the conference kicks off with the annual Charity Golf Tournament on Sunday, August 17th at the scenic Arrowhead Golf Club. The golf event is sponsored by global sponsor Netherland, Sewell & Associates and EnerCom. The tournament is a fundraiser for IN! Pathways to Inclusive Higher Education. By participating in the charity golf tournament, requiring a $150 donation, you directly contribute to creating inclusive college opportunities in Colorado for students with intellectual disabilities and fostering academic growth, social development, and career advancement. EnerCom Denver also hosts a Monday Mixer cocktail reception after day one of conference presentations, which is sponsored by ATB Capital Markets. This valuable opportunity for attendees to enjoy appetizers, drinks, and live music while networking with other conference participants and key representatives from the energy industry shouldn't be missed. Casino Night, sponsored by CAC Specialty, follows day two of the conference; experience the entertainment, fun, and excitement of playing in a real casino environment with 'funny money' (no cash value, for entertainment only) at the poker, blackjack, roulette, and craps tables manned by professional dealers. This year will also include a charity poker tournament. Join us for a night of revelry, music, good food, and drinks, and it is open to all conference attendees. Please join us after the conference concludes on Wednesday afternoon with a closing reception as we reflect on the 2025 Conference. Institutional investors, portfolio managers, family offices, financial analysts, CIOs, and other investment community and industry professionals are encouraged to register now for EnerCom Denver at The conference is free for qualified investment professionals. Companies interested in presenting can contact Larry Busnardo at lbusnardo@ Sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting Blanca Andrus at bandrus@ The presenting company lineup as of July 22, 2025, includes: Advantage Energy (TSX: AAV) Amplify Energy (NYSE: AMPY) Anschutz Exploration APA Corp. (NASDAQ: APA) Armstrong Oil & Gas Aureus Energy Services Baytex Energy (NYSE/TSX: BTE) Berry Corporation (NASDAQ: BRY) Bison Oil & Gas IV BKV (NYSE: BKV) Blackbeard Operating px energy (NYSE: BP) CanCambria Energy (TSXV: CCEC; OTCQB: CCEYF) Deep Blue Water Deep Fission Deep Isolation Diversified Energy (NYSE/LSE: DEC) DNOW (NYSE: DNOW) Drilling Tools International (NASDAQ: DTI) EnerCom Eni SpA (NYSE: E) EOG Resources (NYSE: EOG) ESal Flotek Industries (NYSE: FTK) Freehold Royalties (TSX: FRU) Fundare Resources Gondola Resources Gran Tierra Energy (NYSE/TSX/LSE: GTE) Granite Ridge Resources (NYSE: GRNT) Haynes Boone Hemisphere Energy (TSX: HME; OTCQX: HMENF) Kelt Exploration (TSX: KEL) KODA Liberty Energy (NYSE: LBRT) Logan Energy (TSXV: LGN) LOGOS Energy Mach Natural Resources (NYSE: MNR) Meren Energy (TSX: MER) NCS Multistage (NASDAQ: NCSM) New Era Helium (NASDAQ: NEHC) NuVista Energy (TSX: NVA) NXT Energy Solutions (TSX: SFD; OTCQB: NSFDF) Oklo (NYSE: OKLO) Parex Resources (TSX: PXT; OTCMKTS: PARXF) Petrie Partners PGIM Private Capital Prairie Operating (NASDAQ: PROP) Precision Drilling (NYSE: PDS; TSX: PD) Prospera Energy (TSX: PEI; OTC: GXRFF) Providence Energy Raisa Energy ReconAfrica (TSXV: RECO; OTCQX: RECAF; Frankfurt: 0XD) Renewell Energy Riley Permian (NYSE: REPX) Ring Energy (NYSE: REI) SandRidge Energy (NYSE: SD) Saturn Oil & Gas (TSX: SOIL; OTCQX: OILSF) Select Water Solutions (NYSE: WTTR) SM Energy (NYSE: SM) Solestiss Spartan Delta (TSX: SDE) Surge Energy America Tamarack Valley Energy (TSX: TVE) Tenaz Energy (TSX: TNZ) Teren Ubiterra U.S. Energy Development Corporation UpCurve Energy Valeura Energy (TSX: VLE; OTCQX: VLERF) Verde EOR Solutions Vermilion Energy (NYSE/TSX: VET) Vitesse Energy (NYSE: VTS) Whitecap Resources (TSX: WCP) Williams Companies (NYSE: WMB) Zephyr Energy (AIM: ZPHR; OTCQB: ZPHRF) Conference Overview Conference Details: EnerCom Denver offers investment professionals a unique opportunity to network and listen to senior management teams from leading companies across the energy value chain update investors on their operational and financial strategies and learn how they create value for stakeholders. Conference Dates: August 17–20, 2025. EnerCom will host its annual Charity Golf Tournament on Sunday, August 17th at the scenic Arrowhead Golf Club in Littleton, Colorado. Benefitting IN! Pathways to Inclusive Higher Education, the Golf Tournament requires a $150 charity donation to participate. Formal presentations and meetings will be held Monday, August 18th, through Wednesday, August 20th. Venue: Westin Denver Downtown. Please book rooms under the EnerCom Denver block. We encourage attendees to book their reservations as soon as possible, as rooms sell out. Who Attends the Conference: Institutional investors, family offices, high-net-worth investors, private equity, research analysts, retail brokers, trust officers, investment and commercial bankers, and energy industry professionals gather in Denver for the conference. Conference Format and Details: The EnerCom Denver conference follows EnerCom's familiar 25-minute presentation format, followed by 50-minute Q&A opportunities in separate breakout rooms, one-on-one meetings, and multiple networking opportunities. In addition to in-person access to all company presentations, panel discussions, and keynote speakers, conference registration allows investors and management teams to meet formally and informally over cocktails, breakfast, and lunch. About EnerCom, Inc.: Founded in 1994, EnerCom, Inc. has been a trusted advisor to the global energy industry, working with clients to differentiate and deliver targeted messages to investors. Headquartered in Denver, EnerCom is an internationally recognized strategic communications and management consultancy that advises companies on investor relations, corporate strategy/board advisory, fractional/interim CFO advisory services, marketing, financial analysis and valuation, media, branding, and visual communications design. For more information about EnerCom and its services, please visit or call (303) 296-8834 to speak with one of our consultants. EnerCom Denver Sponsors Include: Netherland, Sewell & Associates, Inc. (NSAI) Netherland, Sewell & Associates, Inc. (NSAI) was founded in 1961 to provide the highest quality engineering and geological consulting to the petroleum industry. Today they are recognized as the worldwide leader of petroleum property analysis to industry and financial organizations, and government agencies. With offices in Dallas and Houston, NSAI provides a complete range of geological, geophysical, petrophysical, and engineering services and has the technical experience and ability to perform these services in any of the onshore and offshore oil and gas producing areas of the world. They provide reserves reports and audits, acquisition and divestiture evaluations, simulation studies, exploration resources assessments, equity determinations, and management and advisory services. Haynes Boone Haynes Boone is an energy-focused corporate law firm that provides a full spectrum of legal services and solutions to clients across the energy industry, including the upstream, midstream, and downstream sectors as well as power and renewables. Our team of more than 100 energy lawyers and landmen has been helping operators, lenders, and private equity firms with some of their most complex and significant transactions and disputes in recent years. The firm's nearly 700 lawyers practice across 19 global offices located in California, Colorado, Illinois, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia, Washington, D.C., London, Mexico City, and Shanghai. The 2023 Chambers USA Legal Guide ranked 31 different firm practice areas, and in 2024, Haynes Boone became the first Am Law 100 firm to ever earn a Gold-level Bell Seal from Mental Health America. The U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers 'Best Law Firms' 2023 survey ranked Haynes Boone in National Tier 1 in Oil & Gas Law. Baker Botts For over 100 years, Baker Botts has been helping energy clients tackle the toughest of their legal challenges. Our deep bench of experienced transactional, environmental, litigation, regulatory, IP, and tax lawyers has helped companies all across the energy industry. Throughout this time we have served as trusted advisors to companies working in every sector of energy — from oil and gas to conventional and renewable power to renewable fuels to LNG and many other related areas. Much of this work has involved our clients' development and deployment of new energy technologies, which has allowed our lawyers to practice at the cutting edge of every energy 'revolution' since the turn of the last century. Wherever significant energy is produced in the world, Baker Botts lawyers work to advance our clients' objectives in the boardroom, the courtroom, and on-the-ground, drawing upon our deep understanding of the complex legal, technical and policy issues that they face. ATB Capital Markets ATB Capital Markets offers holistic corporate and capital markets advice, combined with customised financial solutions to help businesses thrive. We're a full-service financial services provider for key industries. Backed by ATB Financial, a leading financial institution with $62.0 billion in assets, ATB Capital Markets helps clients with services that include investment and corporate banking, sales and trading, institutional research, and risk management. CAC Specialty CAC Specialty is an employee owned risk solutions company of seasoned and proactive industry leaders, operating as a nimble and collaborative partner who puts you and your business first. With a knowledge-driven approach informed by industry data and decades of honed instinct, CAC brings an innovative vision to insurance broking and merchant banking by providing solutions to solve your risk challenges – from the simple to the previously unsolvable. Backed by a $40B AUM asset manager and not constrained by traditional risk transfer thinking, CAC can expand the range of risk transfer through access to private debt and alternative pools of risk capital. bpx energy bpx energy, bp's US onshore business, operates in the Permian, Eagle Ford, and Haynesville basins. Headquartered in Denver, bpx embodies the entrepreneurial spirit of a domestic U.S. onshore producer – utilizing next level technology to safely increase production while lowering emissions, and leveraging other integrated bp business like supply, trading and shipping to maximize value. Petrie Partners Petrie Partners, LLC is a boutique investment banking firm dedicated to the energy industry. The senior leadership has a multi-decade legacy of delivering specialized advice on mergers and acquisitions, asset transactions and valuations, and financings to the boards and managements of public, private, and sovereign entities. Petrie clients benefit from the independent, conflict-free perspective and unwavering advocacy of their best interests that the team brings to every engagement. Vitesse Energy Vitesse is a Denver-based company focused on returning capital to stockholders through owning and acquiring predominantly non-operated working interests in oil and gas properties in the Williston Basin of North Dakota and Montana. The Company also owns non-operated interests in the Central Rockies, including the Denver-Julesburg Basin and the Powder River Basin. IMA IMA Financial Group is an independent broker, defining the future of insurance through comprehensive and consultative risk and wealth management services. A majority employee-owned and managed company, its 2,300-plus associates in offices across the country are empowered by a shared mission to manage risk, protect assets, and make a difference. Oil & Gas 360® The Media Sponsor of Enercom Denver, Oil & Gas 360® is a one-stop source of news, information, and analysis from the professionals at EnerCom, Inc. The website is dedicated to all things energy: people, technologies, transactions, trends, and macro-economic analysis that impact our industry. Oil & Gas 360
Sustainability Times
17-07-2025
- Business
- Sustainability Times
Buried Reactors, Silent Power: Deep Fission's Radical Nuclear Plan Could Revolutionize How the World Feeds Its Data Machines
IN A NUTSHELL 💡 Deep Fission plans to revolutionize energy by burying micro-reactors underground to power data centers efficiently. plans to revolutionize energy by burying underground to power data centers efficiently. 🤝 Strategic partnerships with companies like Endeavour highlight the growing trend of leveraging nuclear power in the tech industry. highlight the growing trend of leveraging nuclear power in the tech industry. 🔧 The use of small modular reactors (SMRs) promises cost reduction and increased accessibility through mass production techniques. promises cost reduction and increased accessibility through mass production techniques. 📈 Despite regulatory challenges, Deep Fission targets operational status by 2029, potentially transforming the U.S. nuclear landscape. The concept of burying nuclear reactors underground might seem like a scene from a sci-fi movie, but it's becoming a reality thanks to innovative startups like Deep Fission. In a world grappling with escalating energy demands, especially from data centers powering AI technologies, traditional energy sources are being pushed to their limits. As a response, the nuclear sector is undergoing a renaissance, with companies exploring groundbreaking ways to generate clean and efficient power. Deep Fission, in collaboration with data center developer Endeavour, aims to harness subterranean nuclear power to meet these demands. But how exactly does this approach work, and what implications does it have for the future of energy? The Rise of Subterranean Nuclear Power The 1950s marked the beginning of underground nuclear testing as countries sought to minimize fallout from aboveground detonations. Fast forward to today, and this concept of using the earth as a natural barrier is being revisited by Deep Fission. By lowering small modular reactors into one-mile-deep boreholes, the company aims to utilize the insulating properties of the earth to safeguard its operations. This method not only promises enhanced safety but could also reduce the need for the tons of concrete traditionally required for reactor construction. Deep Fission's partnership with Endeavour signals a significant step toward realizing this vision, with plans to generate 2 gigawatts of subterranean nuclear power. The startup's innovative approach aligns with the growing trend among nuclear companies to develop compact reactors that can be mass-produced, subsequently lowering costs and increasing accessibility. The collaboration also underscores a broader effort within the tech industry to secure reliable and sustainable energy sources to fuel the ever-increasing computational power required by AI technologies. '18 Hours Without Cooling': Nuclear Reactor Left Unprotected After Technician Closes Wrong Valve in Alarming Safety Breach Strategic Partnerships and Investments Strategic partnerships are at the core of Deep Fission's approach, as demonstrated by its recent deal with Endeavour. Although the financial terms of the agreement remain undisclosed, it highlights the trust and confidence stakeholders have in the startup's vision. The partnership is part of a broader trend where tech giants like Google and Amazon are turning to nuclear startups to meet their energy needs. For instance, Google has teamed up with Kairos for 500 megawatts of reactors, while Amazon collaborates with X-Energy for around 300 megawatts. These alliances emphasize the importance of sustainable and efficient energy solutions in the tech industry. As data centers continue to expand globally, their energy consumption increases, necessitating innovative solutions like those offered by Deep Fission. Such partnerships not only showcase the potential of nuclear power in a modern context but also highlight the critical role of investment in driving technological advancements and sustainability efforts. 'Elusive Plasma Voids Found': US Scientists Crack Tokamak Confinement Mystery After Decades of Global Fusion Frustration The Promise of Small Modular Reactors At the heart of Deep Fission's strategy is the use of small modular reactors (SMRs). These reactors offer numerous advantages over traditional nuclear power plants, primarily due to their compact size and modular design. By utilizing mass production techniques, SMRs promise to significantly reduce the cost of nuclear power, making it a more viable option for widespread adoption. Their smaller footprint also allows for easier integration into existing infrastructure, maximizing land use efficiency. Deep Fission's reactors employ pressurized-water designs, a reliable technology used in various applications, from nuclear submarines to large-scale power plants. This approach highlights the adaptability and versatility of SMRs, making them suitable for a wide range of energy needs. The ability to generate power at a cost of five to seven cents per kilowatt-hour positions Deep Fission as a competitive player in the energy market, with the potential to revolutionize how we think about nuclear power. 'America Races to Catch China': U.S. Fast-Tracks Nuclear Reactor Testing in Urgent Bid to Regain Global Energy Lead Regulatory Challenges and Future Prospects Despite the promising prospects of subterranean nuclear power, regulatory approval remains a significant hurdle for startups like Deep Fission. The company began the licensing process with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in March, facing a timeline that, historically, could span several years. However, recent changes in legislation have introduced an 18-month limit for the NRC to approve or reject small modular reactors, expediting the process and providing a clearer path for innovation. As Deep Fission targets operational status for its first reactor by 2029, it joins a wave of companies poised to transform the nuclear landscape in the U.S. While the path to regulatory approval is fraught with challenges, the potential benefits of this technology are undeniable. As the world continues to seek sustainable and efficient energy solutions, could subterranean nuclear power be the breakthrough we've been waiting for? This article is based on verified sources and supported by editorial technologies. Did you like it? 4.5/5 (27)
Sustainability Times
17-06-2025
- Science
- Sustainability Times
'Bury Them Deep': Nuclear Reactors Planted One Kilometer Underground Could Deliver Cheap and Ultra-Safe Energy for Decades
IN A NUTSHELL 🔬 Deep Fission introduces a revolutionary energy concept with miniature nuclear reactors placed in deep boreholes. introduces a revolutionary energy concept with miniature nuclear reactors placed in deep boreholes. 💡 The design involves a pressurized water reactor, operating at high pressure and temperature, situated over 3,280 feet underground. 🌍 Borehole reactors offer significant advantages, including passive cooling and minimal environmental risk, while being cost-effective. 🚀 With $4 million in funding, this ambitious project is under evaluation by the U.S. Department of Energy for its potential impact on sustainable energy. In the quest for safer and more affordable energy solutions, the American startup Deep Fission has ventured into uncharted territory with its revolutionary concept: a miniature nuclear reactor placed deep within a borehole. This innovative approach seeks to address the long-standing challenges associated with nuclear energy, promising a future where power generation is both sustainable and secure. By harnessing the power of nuclear fission in an unconventional setting, Deep Fission aims to redefine how we think about energy production and its potential impact on the environment. Revolutionizing Energy with Underground Nuclear Fission Nuclear energy, once hailed as the ultimate solution for humanity's growing energy demands, has faced its share of skepticism. Despite its potential for providing nearly limitless power, the legacy of disasters like Chernobyl and Fukushima looms large, casting a shadow over its widespread adoption. Adding to this are the high costs associated with constructing and operating nuclear plants, which have deterred large-scale deployment. Deep Fission's groundbreaking approach seeks to tackle these issues head-on. Their design involves a pressurized water reactor measuring approximately 30 inches in diameter. Operating at a pressure of about 2,320 psi and a temperature of 599 °F, this reactor mirrors the functionality of its conventional counterparts. The unique twist lies in its placement: the reactor is positioned at the bottom of a borehole over 3,280 feet deep, providing a secure and isolated environment. 'China Moves Decades Ahead': World's First Fusion-Fission Hybrid Reactor Set to Eclipse U.S. Efforts by 2030 The Significant Advantages of Borehole Reactors The borehole reactor concept offers several compelling advantages. Utilizing the same type of fuel and components as traditional reactors, it boasts minimal moving parts, save for remotely operated control rods that modulate the nuclear reaction. This simplicity reduces the likelihood of mechanical failures and streamlines maintenance procedures. In instances requiring inspection or servicing, cables can swiftly hoist the reactor to the surface within a couple of hours. The substantial column of water above the reactor naturally pressurizes it, enabling passive cooling and eliminating the need for complex containment systems. Nestled within solid rock and distanced from water tables, the reactor poses minimal environmental risk. In the unlikely event of a malfunction, sealing the borehole would effectively contain any potential hazards, offering a layer of security unmatched by traditional nuclear facilities. 'Reactor Has a Mind Now': U.S. Nuclear Plants Given Digital Twins That Predict Failures Before They Even Exist With a recent infusion of $4 million in funding, Deep Fission's ambitious project has captured the attention of the U.S. Department of Energy, which is set to evaluate its potential and viability. Potential Impact on the Energy Landscape The introduction of borehole reactors could herald a new era in energy production. By minimizing the physical footprint and mitigating environmental risks, these reactors present a compelling case for widespread adoption. Furthermore, their cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency could make nuclear power a more attractive option for nations striving to reduce carbon emissions and transition to sustainable energy sources. 'China Leaves West in the Dust': Its Small Nuclear Reactor Leap Puts Beijing Years Ahead in the Future of Clean Energy Moreover, the scalability of this technology could facilitate its deployment in remote or underserved regions, providing a reliable power source where traditional infrastructure is lacking. This decentralization of energy production aligns with global efforts to democratize access to electricity, fostering economic growth and improving quality of life in developing areas. Challenges and Future Prospects Despite its promise, the borehole reactor concept is not without challenges. Regulatory hurdles, public perception, and technical uncertainties must be navigated before this technology can achieve mainstream acceptance. Rigorous testing and validation will be crucial to ensuring the safety and reliability of these reactors, addressing any concerns that may arise. Nevertheless, the potential rewards are substantial. As the world grapples with the dual challenges of climate change and energy demand, innovative solutions like Deep Fission's borehole reactors offer a glimmer of hope. By reimagining nuclear energy in a more secure and sustainable framework, we move closer to a future where clean power is accessible to all. With these advancements on the horizon, one must wonder: how will the energy landscape evolve in the coming decades, and what role will groundbreaking technologies play in shaping our sustainable future? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.4/5 (21)
Associated Press
30-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Deep Fission Joins Texas Nuclear Alliance as Corporate Board Member
Austin, TX April 29, 2025 --( )-- The Texas Nuclear Alliance (TNA) proudly welcomes Deep Fission, a nuclear technology company developing and deploying scalable small modular reactors a mile underground, as a Founding Member at the Corporate Board level. 'Deep Fission is redefining what's possible for our energy landscape, pairing proven nuclear technology with bold engineering to deliver clean, reliable power from a mile beneath our feet,' said TNA President Reed Clay. 'TNA is proud to partner with Deep Fission who is paving the way for a strong energy future with innovation and ingenuity.' 'We're honored to join the Texas Nuclear Alliance as a founding member,' said Liz Muller, CEO of Deep Fission. 'Texas is poised to be a leader in deploying advanced nuclear technology, and we're proud to be part of that momentum. The Alliance brings together the urgency, expertise, and vision needed to accelerate next-generation energy solutions. At Deep Fission, we believe scalable, underground reactors can deliver carbon-free nuclear power that's faster to build, more cost-effective, and ready to meet Texas-sized demand.' About Deep Fission Deep Fission is revolutionizing the energy landscape with innovative technology that places small modular reactors a mile underground. The team of leading scientists, engineers, and visionaries is driven by a shared commitment to advancing safe, reliable, and affordable low-carbon energy solutions. The company is actively engaged with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and is pursuing commercial projects worldwide. For more information, visit About the Texas Nuclear Alliance TNA is the only industry association in Texas dedicated to the advancement of nuclear technology in the state. TNA was formed with a singular mission: to make Texas the Nuclear Capital of the World. Formed in 2022 in the aftermath of Winter Storm Uri, TNA is based on the fundamental premise that if Texas and the world want low-carbon, reliable energy, it can no longer turn its back on nuclear energy. Nuclear is clean, safe, reliable, and secure. Contact Information: Texas Nuclear Alliance Lauren Clay 512-567-7604 Contact via Email Read the full story here: Deep Fission Joins Texas Nuclear Alliance as Corporate Board Member Press Release Distributed by
Yahoo
15-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Why Nuclear Energy Developers Are Suing Federal Regulators
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)—the federal body that regulates America's nuclear power plants—has long been criticized for stunting domestic nuclear power production with stringent regulations. Nuclear energy developers and states are pushing back. In December, Utah, Texas, and microreactor company Last Energy sued the NRC, challenging the agency's regulatory authority. Last week, underground nuclear energy developer Deep Fission joined the suit. The lawsuit challenges the NRC's Utilization Facility Rule, which requires all nuclear power–producing entities—even those that generate only enough electricity to turn on a lightbulb—to obtain a costly operating license before powering on. While Deep Fission "feels good about our ability to be regulated under the current regime," the company is concerned "about the impact on the world if nuclear is unable to move forward faster – to meet the current anticipated energy demand," Liz Muller, co-founder and CEO of Deep Fission, tells Reason. "We plan to meet the highest nuclear safety standards, and we believe that it can be done with a streamlined and more modern regulatory process that takes into account the small size and inherent safety of our reactors." The NRC's archaic, one-size-fits-all regulations have added undue costs and delays to the nuclear energy industry for no benefit to public health or safety. Test reactors on college campuses, which are recognized by the NRC to present "a lower potential radiological risk to the environment and the public," must comply with the Utilization Facility Rule. As a result, they have to pay an annual licensing fee of $124,400 per reactor. These include reactors at the University of Utah (100 kilowatts) and Texas A&M University, whose two reactors produce 1 megawatt (MW) and 5 watts of electricity (that amount isn't enough to power a typical LED lightbulb). Louisiana does not have a test reactor at any of its universities, but has charted a pathway toward developing small modular reactors, and joined the lawsuit in April. Deep Fission is also negatively impacted by the rule. Using a 30-inch borehole, the company places its small modular reactor (which produces 15 MW of thermal power or 5 MW of electric power) one mile underground. At that depth, reactors are positioned well below the water table and "encased in billions of tons of stable bedrock," which means that they "pose little proliferation or public health risk," says Muller. Deep Fission argues that this "may eliminate the need for costly concrete and steel surface containment buildings," allowing its reactors to produce more affordable electricity. However, before it can get up and running with this technology, Deep Fission will have to pay a steep fee—more than $5 million for larger reactors—to obtain an operating license. Since no small modular reactors are in operation yet (due in large part to stringent regulations), the NRC has not assigned an annual operating fee for these reactors. Last Energy, one of the original plaintiffs of the lawsuit, has had to focus on developing its business overseas because of the utilization rule and others like it. Despite being based in Washington, D.C., the company has public plans for only one project on U.S. soil, which it announced in February. The Utilization Facility Rule is just one of the many onerous regulations that have held back American nuclear power development. The increased state and private sector opposition to the regulation could hopefully make it a relic of the past. The post Why Nuclear Energy Developers Are Suing Federal Regulators appeared first on
