X-energy and South Carolina Electric and Gas Co. (SCE and G) have completed a joint study to examine the technical and economic feasibility of siting an Xe-100 pebble-bed nuclear reactor at a representative site within the SCE and G franchise territory.
The Xe-100 enables a utility to bring its fleet in line with state and federal greenhouse gas mandates with minimal disruption to its existing network, and the small-scale Xe-100 plant allows for smaller upfront capital commitments and lower overall project risks.
Steve Byrne, President of Generation for SCE and G, said: "The Xe-100 is an exciting and dynamic technology with a number of benefits for any utility's long-range plans. Combined with the high technological readiness of pebble-bed designs, the Xe-100 can make a significant and lasting contribution to a clean energy future in the United States."
Doug McCuistion, Chief Operating Officer of X-energy, said: "We are so grateful for the opportunity to work with the great folks at SCE and G on this study. The insights gained here will help us continue to make the Xe-100 a reality, and we look forward to further collaboration with SCE and G."
The joint study team found the Xe-100 to be a technically and economically viable option for expansion or replacement of an existing coal-fired power station. Key findings include:
+ Variable power output to load follow to as low as 25% power
+ Site perimeter designed to be as small as 10 acres that easily allows siting on existing facilities
+ Zero emission of regulated greenhouse gases helps comply with regulations in sensitive environments
+ Installation on existing sites can leverage current infrastructure and significantly reduce costs and schedule
+ Intrinsically safe design could allow for siting close to population centers through reduced emergency planning zones and minimal disruption to surrounding communities.
