Gov. Mike Braun’s goal for the state to be the leader in the development of nuclear energy is getting support from one of Indiana’s most important companies.
INDIANAPOLIS — Gov. Mike Braun’s goal for Indiana to be the leader in the development of nuclear energy is getting support from one of the state’s most important companies.
Eli Lilly and Company signed a letter of intent with the state to collaborate on nuclear energy solutions. Lilly Chair and CEO Dave Ricks released a statement that read, in part, “Advanced nuclear technology represents the kind of bold, clean energy solution our state needs to power the next generation of innovation, and it directly supports Lilly’s own commitment to reduce our environmental footprint. We’re proud to partner with the state to help make it a reality.”
The letter of intent is nonbinding and has no financial implications. It is a symbolic statement that one of Indiana’s oldest, biggest and most important companies believes in the future of nuclear energy for our state.
First American Nuclear also believes in that future. The company moved its headquarters to Indianapolis and is planning to build an energy park with a six-pack of small modular reactors that could power 1.5 million homes.
“We’re looking at several different places throughout the state, working with different stakeholders to identify what’s the most logical path, most logical site to work in as we not only have to be able to service customers needs, the needs of utility rate payers, everybody else involved, but then also have that credible pathway that this will be a nuclear site going forward in the future,” said First American Nuclear CEO Mike Reinboth.
The power plant would begin fueled by natural gas power and convert to nuclear to help affordability during construction. First American wants to partner with an existing utility company and perhaps a high-usage customer.
The company has submitted plans for the EAGL-1 small modular reactor to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. That’s the first major step on the path toward a construction permit.
First American Nuclear plans to announce a location for its energy park later this year. The company will also be announcing a location for a separate research and design facility.
The governor’s goal is for Indiana to be producing nuclear energy by 2033.