The Natrium Demonstration Project – Advancing Clean Energy
Bechtel is leading the charge to deliver the future of energy innovation as we embark with our partner TerraPower to construct the Natrium™ reactor demonstration project. With Bechtel's unparalleled expertise in engineering, procurement, and construction, we are driving the realization of this visionary project, shaping the landscape of sustainable energy for generations to come.
The Natrium demonstration project represents more than just a technological feat—it's a testament to our collective commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable future. By harnessing the power of advanced nuclear technology, we can drive meaningful progress towards decarbonization and combat the urgent threat of climate change.
Together with TerraPower we are laying the foundation for a brighter tomorrow, powered by innovation, collaboration, and a shared vision of a world powered by clean, resilient energy.
Advance Reactor Technology
Bechtel is TerraPower's engineering and construction partner on the first-of-a-kind Natrium™ demonstration project in Kemmerer, Wyoming. The project is a part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Reactor Demonstration Project. This fast-sodium reactor plant design uses sodium to cool the reactor instead of water. This makes the plant significantly more efficient by using less water. Bechtel adds current and unmatched experience managing and executing large nuclear projects to the team.
Bechtel: A Legacy of Excellence in Nuclear Power
With a legacy dating back to the 1950s, Bechtel has been a driving force in the evolution of nuclear power. Having designed, built, or provided services to over 80 nuclear reactors in the United States and 150 worldwide, Bechtel's history in nuclear power is a testament to its unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation. From delivering next generation reactor technologies to setting industry standards for safety and efficiency, Bechtel has played a pivotal role in shaping the global nuclear landscape.
The Vision
Set against the backdrop of a retiring coal plant in Kemmerer, Wyoming, this advanced energy demonstration seeks to validate the design, construction, and operational features of the Natrium system. As the nexus of TerraPower and GE Hitachi technology, the Natrium reactor represents a leap forward in clean, sustainable power generation.
Key Features
At the heart of the project lies a 345 MWe sodium-cooled fast reactor, coupled with a molten salt-based energy storage system. This innovative storage technology empowers the system to boost its output to 500 MW of power when needed, equivalent to the energy required to power around 400,000 homes. The integration of energy storage capabilities not only enhances grid stability but also enables seamless integration with renewable resources, marking a significant milestone in our transition to a greener energy future.