Evergy has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Kansas Department of Commerce and nuclear company TerraPower to explore new reactor and energy storage technology.
The MOU is the latest step in conversations towards a possible “advanced nuclear power plant” and explorations for what’s called the Natrium technology and technical design as a way to help Evergy customers.
The Natrium model involves a 345-megawatt sodium-cooled fast reactor with a molten salt-based energy storage system. Output can increase to 500 megawatts of power as needed. This partnership would be in addition to the first Natrium project, which broke ground last year in Wyoming.
Nuclear power has been part of Evergy’s ongoing power plan since Wolf Creek came online near Burlington 40 years ago. Wolf Creek currently generates around 1,200 megawatts of electricity, enough to power more than 800,000 homes. It also generates over 20 percent of the state’s electricity and over 35 percent of its emissions-free electricity. Unlike the Natrium model, Wolf Creek uses pressurized water.
TerraPower was started by Microsoft founder Bill Gates in 2008 with a goal of developing nuclear technology.
Site selection for a new reactor will revolve around physical site characteristics, licensing from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, proximity to existing infrastructure and community support. Evergy spokesperson Gina Penzig says planning is in early stages, but building a new plant at Wolf Creek has not been ruled out.
Statement from Evergy Chairman and CEO David Campbell
“Nuclear energy has been part of Evergy’s generation mix for decades, and this next step will allow us to explore the opportunity to add reliable, non-carbon emitting advanced nuclear energy in the state of Kansas. This agreement supports our all-of-the-above energy strategy and will allow us to evaluate the cost, technology, and feasibility of potentially deploying Natrium advanced nuclear plants.”
Statement from TerraPower President and CEO Chris Levesque
“Our Natrium technology features a next-generation reactor with enhanced safety and efficiency, paired with utility-scale storage to ensure grid resilience. The TerraPower team is excited to advance conversations with Evergy, state leaders and local communities on the opportunities that the Natrium reactor and energy storage system brings to Kansas.”
Statement from Kansas Governor Laura Kelly
“My administration has always supported an ‘all-of-the-above’ approach when meeting the energy needs of Kansas citizens and businesses. We need to explore all available sources to power the future of our great state, and I’m pleased we’re using innovative methods to do just that.”
Statement from Kansas Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland
“In order to continue our state’s phenomenal surge in economic activity that benefits Kansas residents and communities, we need to consider all innovative options that strengthen our competitive position while driving down costs for consumers. This project could do both.”
Statement from US Senator Roger Marshall
“Nuclear energy is the way of the future. Nuclear produces reliable, clean power—and a lot of it. I’m excited about the prospect of welcoming TerraPower’s Natrium reactor to Kansas and look forward to helping bring this project to fruition so that Kansans can have safe, reliable, and affordable energy.”
Statement from US Senator Jerry Moran
“Expanding the use of nuclear energy strengthens U.S. energy independence while bringing down electricity costs for Kansas rate payers. TerraPower’s decision to collaborate with Evergy and invest in our state is a testament to the skill, opportunity and capabilities found in Kansas, and this partnership will help to advance energy innovation, bolster the Kansas workforce and make certain our state remains a place where business and talent can thrive.”
