Neighboring county appears to be a potential site for advanced nuclear deployment
Southwest Virginia is again emerging as a probable location for Virginia's proposed nuclear energy development and the potential site is next door to Virginia’s Baby.
Wise County appears to be a likely site for a reactor. The Virginia Department of Energy reported that the county, UVA Wise and the Virginia Innovative Nuclear Hub (VIN Hub) will spearhead efforts to prepare the region for "advanced nuclear deployment."
The LENOWISCO Planning District Commission will oversee the initiative on behalf of Wise County. The VIN Hub is responsible for managing the technical planning and coordination. The Virginia Department of Energy announced Monday the state is moving forward with plans to base a nuclear reactor in Southwest Virginia.
The project will receive a $100,000 grant from the Virginia Clean Energy Innovation Bank (VCEIB) and a $97,500 GO Virginia grant. These funds will assist Southwest Virginia in applying for additional funding to advance the initiative.
Gov. Glenn Youngkin stated that bringing nuclear energy production to Southwest Virginia would stimulate regional growth.
"Southwest Virginia has powered our Commonwealth for generations, and now we have the chance to invest in that legacy with the technologies of the future," Youngkin said in the release. "This investment will create jobs, attract new industries, and help build a foundation for long-term growth in a region that has, time and time again, played a critical role in Virginia's success."
A key initial step will be developing a plan to establish the industry and meet state and national energy needs. Project partners will create a "roadmap" to identify potential reactor sites, determine infrastructure requirements, project long-term job creation and revenue, and establish workforce and research partnerships through UVA Wise.
The Virginia Department of Energy describes advanced nuclear reactors as "compact, factory-built systems" designed for rapid deployment. These reactors reportedly offer 24/7, carbon-free power.
"Their deployment in Southwest Virginia represents a strategic opportunity to meet rising energy demand while supporting manufacturing, data centers, and research-driven industries," the release stated. "With strong infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and academic leadership from UVA Wise, Southwest Virginia is uniquely positioned to lead the next generation of clean energy deployment."
Wise County Economic Development Director Mike Hatfield said the county is prepared for the addition of nuclear energy as an industry.
"Wise County continues to demonstrate that we're ready for investment, ready for innovation, and ready to help lead the next chapter of Virginia's energy economy," Hatfield said in the release. "Projects like this are building a foundation for opportunity that will benefit our communities for decades to come."
