US to mint nuclear power from soda mine with eight 50 MWt microreactors

Tata Chemicals North America’s soda ash subsidiary is planning to transform its Green River mining site into a hub for nuclear power generation. It is exploring the deployment of up to eight microreactors at its soda ash mining site in Wyoming.

Tata Chemicals Soda Ash Partners has signed an agreement with BWXT Advanced Technologies to replace traditional energy sources with carbon-free nuclear power by installing advanced microreactors, BANRs, at the Green River facility by the early 2030s.

“Once deployed, BANR microreactors would deliver on-demand electricity and process heat that is both carbon-free and resilient from external disruptions for one of the world’s leading producers of high-quality soda ash,” said Tata Chemicals in a press release.

BANRs deliver consistent energy supply

BWXT’s Advanced Nuclear Reactor (BANR) is a transportable, high-temperature gas-cooled microreactor and represents progress in nuclear reactor design.

These transportable units are designed to deliver a consistent and dependable supply of carbon-free electricity and high-temperature process heat.

This is particularly critical for soda ash production, a process that demands considerable energy for refining trona ore into soda ash.

The BANRs utilize Triso fuel, an innovative technology known for its enhanced safety and efficiency. This fuel type consists of uranium kernels coated with multiple layers of carbon and ceramic materials.

With a thermal output of 50 MWt and reactor outlet temperatures reaching 800°C (1472°F), these microreactors are well-equipped to meet the needs of industrial operations.

Supporting the US government’s nuclear energy goals

Notably, BWXT’s microreactor design is a key component of the US government’s Advanced Reactor Demonstration Programme, which is a federal initiative aimed at accelerating the development and deployment of nuclear reactor technologies.

“We are excited to expand our collaboration with TCSAP and believe we are laying out a credible path, both technically and commercially, to bring nuclear reactors to southwestern Wyoming,” said Joe Miller, President of BWXT.

The Green River facility, operational since 1968, is a cornerstone of the global soda ash market. Situated atop one of the world’s largest trona reserves, the facility operates continuously throughout the year.

“Here, more than 60 billion tons of trona can be found extending over 1,000 square miles at depths of up to a third of a mile,” highlighted the press release.

This constant operation demands a reliable and sustainable energy source, making nuclear power a compelling solution.

Setting an example for energy-intensive industries

Soda ash, or sodium carbonate, is a vital ingredient in the manufacturing of a wide range of products. Primarily used in glass production, it also plays a crucial role in the production of detergents, chemicals, and other industrial goods.

However, its production process is energy-intensive, underscoring the significance of Tata Chemicals’ transition towards carbon-free energy sources.

By pioneering the use of nuclear power in soda ash production, Tata Chemicals is setting a powerful example for the chemical industry.

This development also aligns with the broader industry trend. Several energy-intensive sectors, such as AI data centers, are looking to generate electricity through nuclear power to meet their operational requirements.

In the latest event, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman-backed nuclear power startup Oklo announced that it would provide up to 12 gigawatts of energy to the US’ energy-hungry data centers.

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