5 days ago
- Business
- Condé Nast Traveler
Could the US Have the World's First Nuclear-Powered Airport?
The United States could soon have its first-ever nuclear-powered airport.
In an industry first, Denver International Airport (DEN) has announced it will be launching a study examining the feasibility of adding a new type of nuclear power source called a small modular reactor (SMR) to its campus.
This new, more modern type of reactor is thought to be a safe, scalable, and potentially more cost-effective method of harnessing nuclear power, Denver officials say. These compact nuclear reactors can generate up to 300 MW(e) of power per unit, plus they're more flexible than traditional reactors. 'Given their smaller footprint, SMRs can be sited on locations not suitable for larger nuclear power plants,' according to information from the International Atomic Energy Agency.
The study is estimated to cost $1.25 million and will take between six to 12 months to complete. However, the launch has been temporarily delayed to allow time for the Denver Airport to 'incorporate feedback from City Council and conduct some initial community outreach," a DEN spokesperson tells Condé Nast Traveler.
When the study does get underway, airport officials hope to learn how much of the facility's power could run on nuclear energy and if SMR is a viable option to meet the airport's long-term needs. The research should also help determine the cost of running the reactors, potential funding options, the risks involved, and what type of government regulation would be needed.
