TVA plans to use this opportunity to establish a domestic supply chain and support future advanced nuclear unit deployments across the US and internationally. Credit: KLiK Photography/Shutterstock.

The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is to lead an $800m application to the US Department of Energy’s Generation III+ small modular reactor (SMR) programme.

The initiative, backed by a coalition including Bechtel, BWX Technologies and Duke Energy, aims to accelerate the construction of an SMR at TVA’s Clinch River project in Oak Ridge, Tennessee.

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If successful, the funding will expedite the Clinch River SMR project by two years, targeting commercial operation by 2033.

TVA president and CEO Jeff Lyash stated: “We believe advanced nuclear technologies will play a critical role in our region and nation’s drive towards greater energy security. Enabling and accelerating this technology will take innovation and partnership, as well as discipline and hard work.

“Nuclear is the most reliable and efficient energy the world has ever known, and TVA is uniquely positioned to help drive this forward. We are committed to working with partners and this grant would expedite our work as we invest in America’s nuclear future.”

TVA plans to use this opportunity to establish a domestic supply chain and support future advanced nuclear unit deployments across the US and internationally.

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The funding’s impact extends beyond Clinch River, as TVA and its partners intend to share insights and best practices to reduce costs and risks, advancing nuclear technology nationwide.

TVA is proceeding with a phased planning process for the Clinch River Project, with board evaluations at each stage.

TVA’s board has yet to approve an SMR at the site. Should approval be granted, the Department of Energy funding would facilitate the project’s early stages.

The company envisions deploying up to four SMRs at the Clinch River nuclear site, stimulating the supply chain for BWRX-300 reactors in the coming decades.

Duke Energy president Harry Sideris stated: “As the operator of the largest regulated nuclear fleet in the US, we are pleased to join this important initiative to advance new nuclear technologies with the DOE and key industry peers.

“Small modular reactor technologies can play a vital role in our long-term energy transition strategy, and public-private partnerships can help accelerate their introduction by ensuring industry learnings and best practices are leveraged to deliver the best value for our customers and communities.”