Denver International Airport (DEN) announces a study to assess the feasibility of installing a small modular nuclear reactor(SMR) at its facilities. This initiative is part of its strategy to become the world’s most sustainable air terminal and to ensure a secure electricity supply to meet growing demand.
The vision of a modular nuclear reactor
DEN expects passenger traffic to exceed 120 million passengers per year, which will require a higher and more reliable energy capacity. In this context, the airport management considers that the SMR could complement renewable renewable sources such as solar and wind, mitigating the intermittency of these technologies and reducing carbon emissions.
The airport currently has solar panels on 100 acres, LEED Gold and Platinum certified projects, and a growing fleet of electric vehicles. However, management recognizes that diversification of the energy matrix will be necessary to meet the challenges of climate change and urban growth.
The study could cost up to US$1.25 million and will take between six and twelve months to complete. It will analyze different SMR technologies, estimated costs, financing options, necessary regulations and associated risks. With this information, DEN and its partners will evaluate the technical, economic and environmental feasibility of the project.
Officials from Denver’s Office of Climate Action believe that this research will allow them to measure the real contribution of modular nuclear power to the city’s zero-emissions goals, as well as its ability to ensure a constant and sustainable supply.
Source: DEN
Photo: Shutterstock
