TerraPower hosted an open house last week on November 13, showcasing exciting developments in their ongoing project and discussing the infrastructure needed to support the upcoming workforce. CEO Chris Levesque, along with his leadership team, including Rita Bayer, Andy Crushell, George Picard, and new Project Director Pat Young, is actively engaging with the community.

Brian Muir, the City Administrator, reported during a recent live radio interview on SVI that the atmosphere is optimistic as TerraPower’s plans become increasingly tangible. “We’re getting to know all these new people who are coming to Kemmerer. They’re going to live here and help make this project happen,” Muir shared. As the project progresses, the community is witnessing tangible changes; for instance, the sodium test fill facility has been constructed, and steel structures are starting to rise.

Regarding regulatory approvals, Muir noted that the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) permits are “going really well,” with expectations to secure necessary permits by Q1. With these steps aligning, the workforce is set to ramp up in April, marking a significant shift as the project moves into its upcoming phases.

An essential focus of the open house is the housing needs associated with the anticipated influx of workers—potentially reaching a peak of 1,600. Muir highlighted the necessity for temporary workforce housing, explaining that “a good portion” of workers will utilize RV parks, but additional housing solutions are being explored. “We need to be talking about how to ramp up our preparations for the workforce housing,” he emphasized.

To effectively address these housing challenges, Muir stressed that it will be a joint effort from both the community and regional partners. Discussions are already underway to create a comprehensive housing strategy to support incoming employees effectively.

As TerraPower continues to gather momentum, the conversation extends beyond Kemmerer, with new plant permits being filed in the United Kingdom. The demand for nuclear energy is rapidly increasing, especially as technology evolves and the reliance on coal decreases. With 20% of the power grid currently sourced from nuclear energy, the need for new plants is crucial to maintaining this percentage.

The open house represents not just a snapshot of TerraPower’s achievements but also a pivotal moment for Kemmerer. The collaborative efforts between the company and local leaders are vital in preparing for the future, ensuring that both the community and the workforce are well-supported as this project unfolds.