Governor Partners With TerraPower to Explore Nuclear Plant Sites in Green River

The Emery County Commission meeting on September 2, 2025, focused on significant developments in nuclear energy initiatives within the region. A key discussion point was the recent agreement between the governor's Office of Energy Development and TerraPower, a nuclear company, to identify potential sites for new nuclear power plants. The commission expressed strong support for Green River as a viable location, citing its existing infrastructure and previous geological testing that has already been conducted.

The commission noted that Green River's location near a river provides essential water resources for nuclear power generation, making it a logical choice for development. Mayor Hat of Green River communicated the city council's backing for this initiative, indicating a collaborative effort to explore additional sites within Emery County.

In a related discussion, the commission addressed the potential energy demands of a new artificial intelligence center, which is projected to require four gigawatts of power—equivalent to the total energy consumption of Utah residents. This highlights the urgency and importance of expanding energy production capabilities in the area.

The commission unanimously approved a motion to support Green River as a potential site for the nuclear power generation project, emphasizing the need for a letter of support to expedite the process. Additionally, the meeting included discussions about a building permit for Valor Atomics, which is preparing to break ground on its project, further indicating a growing interest in nuclear energy within the county.

Overall, the meeting underscored Emery County's proactive approach to energy development, particularly in the nuclear sector, as it seeks to position itself as a leader in sustainable energy solutions.