Parsons, KS, will be the site of a planned pioneering nuclear energy project.

 

California-based Deep Fission, Inc. has announced plans to pursue a full-scale commercial project following a successful test of a small modular pressurized water reactor that will be placed one mile underground.

 

The project will be constructed at the Great Plains Industrial Park in Parsons, with a groundbreaking ceremony planned for Tuesday, December 9th.

 

Deep Fission is participating in the U.S. Department of Energy’s Reactor Pilot Program, an initiative designed to accelerate the deployment of advanced nuclear technologies through a streamlined regulatory pathway under the Atomic Energy Act.

 

The project is part of the Department of Energy's new Reactor Pilot Program. The Deep Fission Borehole Reactor 1, with a minimum diameter of approximately 30 inches, will operate at a depth of approximately 1 mile. The extreme depth provides many benefits, including reduced surface construction costs normally associated with nuclear power plants. Each reactor will generate up to 15 megawatts of electric power.

 

For comparison, the steam turbine at Coffeyville's downtown power plant produces up to 38 megawatts, and each of the three engines at the new power plant at the airport produce 18.7 megawatts. If this plant is successful, larger ones could be in the works.

 

Deep Fission Co-Founder Liz Muller says the gravity reactor is designed to deliver safer, faster and dramatically cheaper energy.

 

Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland says his department will support Deep Fission's efforts as they prepare to demonstrate their project and integrate transparent community engagement.

 

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran is also heralding the effort, saying he supports lower energy rates for Kansans.

 

You can learn more about the project here.