Bechtel has officially begun construction on the Natrium Demonstration Project in Kemmerer, Wyoming. As TerraPower’s engineering, procurement, and construction partner, Bechtel is collaborating on this pioneering project under the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program. Advanced Nuclear Technology The Natrium project features an advanced nuclear reactor that utilizes sodium-based technology for cooling, a departure from traditional water-based cooling systems. Developed by TerraPower, this innovative reactor can provide a consistent baseload operation at 345 megawatts, with the capability to increase to 500 megawatts. This output is sufficient to power approximately 400,000 homes. Craig Albert, Bechtel President and COO, emphasized the transformative nature of the Natrium reactor. He noted that its design promises to usher in a new era of nuclear plant construction characterized by enhanced safety, cleanliness, speed, and efficiency compared to many current energy sources. Albert highlighted that the synergy between advanced technology and streamlined construction processes has the potential to diversify the U.S. power generation landscape. The deployment of smaller, advanced nuclear plants alongside other clean energy sources is expected to accelerate progress toward net-zero emissions. Albert also praised TerraPower’s forward-thinking approach and the strength of their partnership. He pointed out that TerraPower’s integration of Bechtel from […]