TerraPower begins construction of Natrium nuclear reactor in Wyoming

TerraPower, a nuclear technology company founded and backed by Bill Gates, has begun construction on the Natrium reactor project in Kemmerer, Wyoming. Following authorization from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the project—officially known as Kemmerer Power Station Unit 1—aims to become a leading advanced commercial reactor in the United States.

The facility is being built adjacent to the retiring Naughton coal plant, allowing the project to utilize existing transmission infrastructure and the local industrial workforce. With an estimated investment of approximately $4 billion, the plant is expected to begin operations between 2030 and 2031.

Technically, the Natrium design differs from traditional nuclear plants by using liquid sodium for cooling rather than high-pressure water. This allows for higher operating temperatures with simplified, inherently safer systems. The plant will have a base capacity of 345 megawatts, with a molten salt energy storage system capable of boosting output to 500 megawatts during peak demand. Once operational, it is projected to supply electricity to roughly 400,000 homes. The project is supported by a public-private partnership, including up to $2 billion in matching funds from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program.