TVA Takes Historic Step in Nuclear Energy with First SMR Permit Application in the U.S.

TVA Leads the Way in Advanced Nuclear Energy



On May 20, 2025, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) made a historic announcement that could reshape America's energy landscape. As the first utility in the United States to submit a construction permit application (CPA) for the GE Vernova Hitachi Nuclear Energy small modular reactor (SMR) BWRX-300, TVA is setting a new course in nuclear technology. This landmark move, presented to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), signifies not just a regulatory achievement but a strategic pivot towards modern and sustainable energy solutions.

TVA's President and CEO, Don Moul, emphasized the significance of this milestone for the TVA, its region, and the nation. He stated, "We are accelerating the development of new nuclear technology, its supply chain and delivery model to unleash American energy." The BWRX-300 SMR is positioned to fuel advancements in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and advanced manufacturing, thereby making it a central piece in America's future economic framework.

The Promise of Small Modular Reactors



Unlike traditional nuclear reactors, SMRs, like the BWRX-300, offer a compact design and improved safety features. This technology not only makes the reactors safer but also allows for easier replication and increased efficiency. TVA's pursuit of BWRX-300 aims to harness these advantages, with the smaller reactors potentially accelerating construction timelines and offering a more integrated solution to the energy needs of today and the future.

Moul underlined that the United States must take a leading role in the commercialization of affordable and reliable nuclear energy. With the nation’s first and only early site permit for SMRs at the Clinch River site, TVA is poised to lead this charge effectively.

In an effort to catalyze the swift development of the BWRX-300 technology, TVA is collaborating on a global scale, working alongside industry leaders to fast-track the design and implementation process. They have also submitted an application for an $800 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to support this initiative and have sought an additional $8 million grant dedicated to the NRC license review costs.

Commitment to Environmental Responsibility



Furthermore, TVA has proactively completed the Environmental Report for the Clinch River site and submitted it to the NRC, ensuring that all regulatory and environmental considerations are prioritized in this development. Preliminary site preparation for the construction of the SMR could commence as early as 2026, heralding a new era for energy production that emphasizes environmental stewardship alongside technological advancement.

As TVA embarks on this ambitious project, the implications extend beyond mere energy production. By nurturing a domestic nuclear supply chain, TVA aims to not only bolster American jobs but also establish the U.S. as a global leader in advanced nuclear technologies. This holistic approach could reinforce national energy security, providing affordable and abundant electricity to American families and businesses in the years to come.

In conclusion, TVA’s initiative to submit this permit application marks a defining moment for nuclear energy in the United States. It represents a robust commitment to improving energy independence, enhancing economic growth, and supporting technological advancements in increasingly critical areas such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing. As TVA continues down this path, it will be fascinating to observe how this nuclear renaissance unfolds in the technology and energy landscape of America.

Media Inquiries


For further information, please contact:
Scott Fiedler, 901-414-6964, [email protected]
TVA Public Relations, Knoxville, 865-632-6000

Topics Energy)

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