Nuclear could be the crown jewel for Texas energy

Smaller, cheaper and more efficient reactors have governor’s attention

Traveling through Texas, it’s impossible to ignore the state’s rich energy legacy. Boasting a robust mix of fossil fuels and renewables, Texas is often hailed as the example of energy done right. Yet, between drill sites and wind farms, something is missing.

Despite Texas’ four nuclear reactors, which play a crucial role in providing 10% of the state’s electricity, endeavors to expand nuclear’s footprint have fallen short. Gov. Greg Abbott’s newfound interest may help bridge the gap.

At the University of Texas in Austin last August, Abbott voiced support for small modular reactors, otherwise known as next-generation nuclear energy. Small modular reactors, commonly known as SMRs, are exactly what they sound like: smaller nuclear reactors. What sets SMRs apart is their ability to generate around 300 megawatts of energy, tailored to power smaller neighborhoods and communities independently. Costs for these smaller reactors are also dramatically lower. Companies like Oklo and TerraPower are leading the charge in developing various SMR designs, promising significantly lower costs and enhanced safety features.

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