Nuclear reactors placed in the earth’s crust can revolutionize electricity production

A US nuclear technology company Deep Fission has announced that it has received letters of intent for 18.5 gigawatts of power from data centers, industrial companies and strategic partners. The number describes the possible future electricity production capacity. Reported about it Interesting Engineer.

The increase in data centers and especially artificial intelligence applications has increased the demand for low-emission electricity available around the clock.

Deep Fission plans to develop small modular pressurized water reactors that will be placed approximately 1.6-1.8 km underground.

A pilot project in Kansas

The first pilot project is underway in the state of Kansas.

Engineers have drilled the first 1.8 km deep exploration hole. It is used to gather geological and technical information for the future demonstration reactor.

The goal of the project is to demonstrate the functionality of the underground reactor concept before commercial deployment.

The technology is still in the development phase

According to the company, placing the reactors deep underground reduces the required land area and improves safety. Still, a nuclear reactor underground requires extensive tests and official assessments.

However, the technology is still in the development phase and requires extensive tests and approvals from the authorities before implementation.

Deep Fission plans to apply for a commercial license from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in early 2027.