- Energy Northwest and Puget Sound Energy are leading the charge in advancing clean energy with a collaborative investment in advanced nuclear technologies, particularly the Xe-100 small modular reactor.
- The Xe-100 SMR, featuring innovative designs and enhanced safety systems, is set to play a crucial role in the decarbonization of the electric grid, providing reliable and affordable electricity without greenhouse gas emissions.
- Puget Sound Energy’s $10 million commitment supplements previous investments, reflecting a shared commitment to addressing climate challenges and meeting the region’s future clean energy needs through cutting-edge carbon-free nuclear energy technologies.
Energy Northwest and Puget Sound Energy have joined forces to invest in advanced nuclear energy technologies, with a focus on the Xe-100 small modular reactor (SMR). As states increasingly implement policies requiring a substantial increase in clean electricity, utilities are exploring new sources of clean energy generation.
According to Energy Northwest, these new nuclear energy technologies, including advanced SMRs, are nearing commercial readiness. These technologies boast enhanced safety systems, standardized designs, scalability, and the ability to seamlessly integrate with renewables. Importantly, they can provide around-the-clock electricity without emitting greenhouse gases.
Puget Sound Energy has committed $10 million to the program, supplementing the $10 million contributed to date by Energy Northwest and supporting entities. This includes nearly $1 million from 17 other public utilities. The collaboration aims to address the need for carbon-free, reliable, and affordable electricity as part of the transition to a decarbonized electric grid.
Bob Schuetz, CEO of Energy Northwest, highlighted the role of advanced nuclear energy technology in meeting the challenges of climate change. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to deploying new and innovative carbon-free nuclear energy technologies to meet the region’s future clean energy needs.
Mary Kipp, President and CEO of Puget Sound Energy, emphasized the potential of advanced nuclear technology to be a reliable resource for producing energy without emitting greenhouse gases. The Xe-100 SMR, an 80 MWe high-temperature gas-cooled reactor using TRISO particle fuel, is a key focus of this collaboration.
The joint development agreement signed between Energy Northwest and X-Energy Reactor Company outlines plans for deploying up to 12 Xe-100 units at a site adjacent to the existing Columbia nuclear power plant. The first module is expected to be online by 2030.
Energy Northwest, established by the state legislature in 1957, owns and operates the Columbia Generating Station, the region’s only nuclear power plant. In addition to nuclear power, it manages solar, hydroelectric, wind generating facilities, and a battery energy storage system. Puget Sound Energy, with over 3500 MWe of generating capacity, is committed to Washington’s goal of achieving a greenhouse gas emission-free electricity supply by 2045, as mandated by a law signed in 2019.