Appalachian Power Explores SMR Deployment in Virginia
Key Ideas
- Appalachian Power plans to bring small modular reactors (SMRs) to Virginia, focusing on the company-owned Joshua Falls site in Campbell County.
- The utility aims to leverage existing electrical infrastructure for efficient generation, with plans to apply for a $900 million grant to accelerate SMR deployment.
- Virginia's legislative support and funding initiatives, including the Virginia Power Innovation Fund and nuclear education grants, demonstrate commitment to advancing SMR technology.
- Dominion Energy Virginia also initiated an evaluation at North Anna Power Station, indicating growing interest in exploring SMRs for power generation.
Appalachian Power has revealed plans to introduce small modular reactors (SMRs) to Virginia, pinpointing the company-owned Joshua Falls site in Campbell County. The site's infrastructure, including a 765-kilovolt substation and access to roadways, makes it conducive for a potential SMR project. The utility intends to kickstart the early site permit application process and collaborate with states to align energy solutions with policy goals. Virginia's legislative support, highlighted by bills enabling project development cost recovery and the establishment of the Virginia Power Innovation Fund, showcases a proactive approach to advancing SMR technology. Furthermore, Dominion Energy Virginia's Request for Proposals at the North Anna Power Station signals a broader industry interest in exploring SMRs. The state's commitment to promoting innovative energy technologies like SMRs, hydrogen, and nuclear education programs underscores a positive outlook towards sustainable and reliable power generation in Virginia.