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While most electricity in Utah is generated by gas or coal-powered plants, one regional utility is considering the nuclear option.
Credit brianguest/Adobe Stock
In the push toward carbon-free energy production, some cities in Utah and nearby states are considering a new type of nuclear reactor to power their future.
The project, partially funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, aims to bring six small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) online by 2029, including for customers of Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems.
However, watchdog groups warn the "new generation" reactors are untested, and could have high financial and environmental costs.
Scott Williams, executive director of the Healthy Environmental Alliance of Utah, said the new system comes with the same old problems.