The Idaho National Laboratory (INL) announced on November 2, 2023, the first selections for the Microreactor Application Research Validation and Evaluation (MARVEL) initiative. This program aims to explore innovative applications for microreactor technology, with five teams chosen to conduct experiments that include desalination for remote operations and the deployment of advanced sensors.
These experiments mark a significant step in demonstrating the potential of microreactors to power various applications, including data centers. This approach aligns with broader efforts initiated by the previous administration to invigorate private sector innovation and expedite the rollout of commercial nuclear technologies. As explained by John Jackson, national technical director for the Department of Energy’s Office of Nuclear Energy, “Nowhere else in the world will you find this level of support for public sector innovation in nuclear energy.”
The MARVEL microreactor, developed by the Department of Energy, will generate 85 kilowatts of thermal energy and up to 20 kilowatts of electricity. Located at the Transient Reactor Test Facility in Idaho, MARVEL serves as a testbed where private companies can explore various applications of microreactor technology.
Innovative Applications from Selected Teams
The selected teams represent a diverse array of proposals, each aiming to leverage the unique capabilities of MARVEL. The next phase involves collaboration with Department of Energy and national laboratory staff to refine implementation plans for their projects:
– **Amazon Web Services Inc.** plans to integrate the MARVEL reactor with a modular data center, providing a cost-effective solution for defense and government agencies to establish self-sustaining data centers in remote locations.
– **DCX USA** in collaboration with **Arizona State University** aims to evaluate the use of a microreactor to maintain stable power for artificial intelligence operations, addressing the specific energy demands of AI processing.
– **General Electric Vernova** intends to utilize MARVEL to demonstrate remote and autonomous reactor operations, contributing to the establishment of control standards applicable to commercial reactors.
– **Radiation Detection Technologies Inc.** proposes to conduct tests on advanced sensor technologies that monitor the performance of next-generation reactors.
– A consortium including **Shepherd Power**, **NOV**, and **ConocoPhillips** plans to pilot a desalination project using nuclear-generated process heat, targeting water challenges associated with oil and gas operations.
As these teams work to assess the feasibility of their projects, they will engage closely with national laboratory experts. The outcome of these efforts may lead to significant demonstrations of microreactor capabilities. Final agreements for the proposed projects are expected to be announced in 2024.
With the MARVEL initiative, the Idaho National Laboratory aims to position the United States at the forefront of nuclear energy innovation, addressing critical challenges related to energy and water supply in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
