DOE funding for next generation nuclear plants
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PrintThe U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) plans to support the design and establishment of next generation nuclear plants. These plants are intended to extend the application of nuclear energy into broader industrial and transportation sectors.
Other expected benefits from these nuclear plants include reducing fuel use, reducing pollution and improving safety.
Next Generation Nuclear Plant (NGNP) program
To this end, the DOE announced that up to $40 million in funding will be available from the department's Next Generation Nuclear Plant (NGNP) program. These nuclear plants plan to use new, high temperature, gas-cooled reactor technologies to integrate multiple industrial applications in one plant.
For example, one facility may generate electricity while refining petroleum.
“Next Generation Nuclear Plants hold the promise of safe, cost-effective, zero-emissions energy for major U.S. industries that are some of the largest energy consumers in the country," said Energy Secretary Steven Chu.
Greenhouse gas emissions
Since about 40 percent of the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions come from industrial processes in high energy consuming sectors like petroleum, plastic and biofuels producers, next generation nuclear plants will be designed to help these producers reduce their energy consumption.
This will be done by integrating energy generation and production operations. In a next generation nuclear plant, the heat or steam generated by the nuclear reactors can be used to manufacture plastic components, produce ammonia, or power advanced turbines.
"By integrating multiple industrial processes, this next generation technology will offset imported fossil fuels, reduce pollution and create tens of thousands of quality jobs in industries across America,” said Secretary Chu.
Next Generation Nuclear Plant (NGNP) program phases
The NGNP project is being conducted in two phases with Phase 1 comprised of research and development, conceptual design, and development of licensing requirements, and Phase 2 comprised of detailed design, license review, and construction that would lead to a demonstration plant that is capable of producing hydrogen, electricity, or process heat.
The Applications for the Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) are due November 16, 2009. DOE expects to make up to two awards in February 2010.
