TerraPower updates Wyoming lawmakers on Natrium nuclear reactor project

In a recent meeting of the Joint Minerals, Business & Economic Development Committee held on May 22, 2025, representatives from TerraPower provided a comprehensive update on their advanced nuclear reactor project, Natrium, located near Kemmerer, Wyoming. The discussions highlighted the project's significance in addressing energy demands and its potential economic impact on the local community.

Andrew Richards, Vice President of Government Affairs for TerraPower, emphasized the importance of the Natrium reactor, which is designed to produce 345 megawatts of electricity and features a unique molten salt storage system. This innovative design aims to deliver reliable, clean energy while enhancing grid stability. Richards noted that the project is a public-private partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy, reflecting ongoing support for advanced nuclear technology initiated during the previous administration.

The construction phase of the Natrium project is expected to create approximately 1,600 jobs at its peak, with 200 to 250 permanent positions once operational. TerraPower is committed to integrating into the Kemmerer community, contributing to both economic development and energy independence. The project is structured in phases, with non-nuclear support facilities already under construction and plans for the Energy Island to commence later this year.

Richards also provided updates on regulatory progress, indicating that the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has granted necessary exemptions and approvals, allowing construction to move forward. The timeline anticipates the completion of the reactor by 2030, contingent upon receiving a construction permit from the NRC, which is expected in late 2026.

The meeting also included discussions on security measures related to the project, with Barry Westridge, a security expert from TerraPower, set to address these concerns. The emphasis on security underscores the importance of ensuring safety in nuclear energy operations, particularly as the project progresses.

Overall, the committee meeting underscored the critical role of the Natrium project in Wyoming's energy landscape, highlighting its potential to drive economic growth and establish the state as a leader in advanced nuclear technology. As construction advances, the community and stakeholders will be closely monitoring developments and the project's broader implications for energy policy and economic resilience in the region.