In the 1950s, the U.S. turned to underground nuclear testing as a way to contain the fallout, both literally and figuratively, caused by aboveground explosions. Fast forward to the present day, and a new era of nuclear innovation is on the horizon. Deep Fission, a nuclear startup, is shaking things up by planning to bury a small reactor underground, utilizing depth to provide the security typically achieved with tons of concrete in traditional aboveground facilities. This groundbreaking approach has caught the attention of the industry, as Deep Fission recently inked a deal with data center developer Endeavour to construct 2 gigawatts of subterranean nuclear power.
The nuclear industry is experiencing a resurgence, fueled in part by the escalating energy demands of data centers that are powering AI applications. Major players like Google, Amazon, and Meta are all exploring nuclear energy as a viable solution to meet their increasing power needs. Smaller, more affordable modular reactors are gaining popularity, offering a cost-effective alternative to conventional nuclear power plants.
Deep Fission’s innovative reactors are designed to be lowered into a one-mile deep borehole, using pressurized-water technology commonly found in nuclear submarines and power plants. With a steam generator converting heat into usable energy, Deep Fission aims to provide electricity at a competitive rate of five to seven cents per kilowatt-hour. This is significantly lower than current estimates for new nuclear power in the U.S., making it an attractive option for businesses and consumers alike.
While the future looks bright for nuclear startups like Deep Fission, regulatory hurdles still remain. Obtaining a license from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission is a crucial step in bringing these innovative technologies to market. With new legislation streamlining the approval process for small modular reactors, the industry is optimistic about the rapid adoption of underground nuclear power. Deep Fission is poised to inaugurate its first reactor in 2029, aligning with the timeline of other companies in the sector.
As the world grapples with the challenges of meeting growing energy demands while reducing environmental impact, the rise of nuclear startups like Deep Fission offers a promising solution. By harnessing the power of underground nuclear reactors, we may unlock a cleaner, more sustainable energy future for generations to come.
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