X-energy receives DOE funding award for advanced nuclear reactor project

X-energy was awarded about $3.5 million from the Department of Energy to develop its advanced nuclear reactor.

X-energy, located in Rockville, Md., is developing a pebble bed, high-temperature gas-cooled reactor. With the award money, the company will examine ways to reduce construction and maintenance costs of its Xe-100 reactor design. Specifically, the company will focus on cutting costs through underground construction, the use of pooled off-site resources, and simplified passive safety systems to prevent fuel damage. DOE is funding $3,468,323 of the $7,127,814 cost-shared project.

“Advanced reactors are taking off in the United States with more than 50 U.S. companies currently developing the technology,” Secretary of Energy Dan Brouillette said. “These private-public partnerships are critical to ensure the success of the next generation of nuclear reactors by making them more affordable to build and operate.”

DOE has awarded $195 million over the last two years through its U.S. Industry Opportunities for Advanced Nuclear Technology Development funding opportunity. The application and selection process for funding opportunities will be conducted three times per year over the next three years. There are three funding pathways to support nuclear demonstration readiness projects, advanced reactor development projects, and regulatory assistance. Contact the DOE’s
Office of Nuclear Energy for more information.