Denver International Airport, the third busiest airport in the United States, is considering the installation of a small nuclear reactor on its premises to address the increasing demand for electricity and reduce reliance on carbon-emitting power sources.
Denver Mayor Mike Johnston and airport CEO Phil Washington announced that DIA has issued a request for proposals to study the feasibility of constructing a small modular nuclear reactor on-site. These reactors, currently in development in the U.S., are much smaller in size than traditional nuclear facilities and generate a smaller amount of power.
With an expected influx of over 120 million passengers by 2045, DIA is seeking sustainable power solutions to support airport operations and meet safety and customer service objectives.
The airport, ranked as the sixth busiest in the world, currently sources its electricity from Xcel Energy, with approximately 30% coming from solar energy. DIA has also increased its electric vehicle fleet and implemented energy efficiency measures to conserve electricity, natural gas, and water.
Interest in small modular nuclear reactors has surged due to concerns about climate change and the projected rise in electricity demands driven by factors such as data centers and electric vehicles.
Xcel Energy, Colorado’s largest electric utility, anticipates a 4% annual growth in demand on its system through 2031, significantly higher than the average rate of 0.7% over the past five years.
The Colorado General Assembly recently passed legislation that includes nuclear power in the list of clean energy resources that utilities can utilize to meet state clean energy objectives.
While the Trump administration has prioritized the advancement of nuclear reactor technology, commercial nuclear plants in the U.S. currently do not operate small modular reactors. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has licensed designs for small reactors by NuScale Power Corp.
Despite past challenges faced by some projects, DIA remains committed to exploring the potential of small modular nuclear reactors. The upcoming feasibility study, costing up to $1.25 million, aims to assess the viability, technology options, costs, and financing opportunities associated with implementing such reactors at the airport.
This study is projected to be completed within six to twelve months, providing valuable insights into the feasibility of integrating small modular nuclear reactors at DIA.
Mayor Johnston emphasized that this initiative aligns with the airport’s long-term sustainability goals and commitment to delivering reliable and clean energy solutions for the future.
As the aviation industry seeks innovative ways to reduce environmental impact, the exploration of small modular nuclear reactors represents a proactive step towards achieving a greener and more efficient airport infrastructure.
This article is subject to updates as the situation progresses.
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