A Small Modular Nuclear Reactor in Southern Idaho?
Editor's Note: This piece, authored by ICL Executive Director, Justin Hayes, originally appeared as a Guest Opinion in the Idaho Statesman on July 22, 2025.
Idaho is at an energy crossroads. As we confront growing demand and the need to move toward a carbon-free future, the question isn't whether we transition to clean energy—but how.That’s why the Idaho Conservation League is paying close attention to a proposal from Sawtooth Energy and Development Corporation to build a 462-megawatt facility, consisting of six small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs), in Jerome County. The company plans to use NuScale* Power’s 77-megawatt reactor design—approved by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission—with hopes to generate power by 2028.We’re open to exploring all technologies that can help Idaho reduce emissions, strengthen grid reliability, and provide affordable electricity. Nuclear energy—particularly SMRs—could play a role. But before moving forward, we must ask the right questions.
Safety Comes First
The first and most essential question is: Is it safe? While SMRs are described as simpler and more secure than traditional reactors, they still come with risks. Issues like spent fuel storage, transportation of radioactive materials, and emergency preparedness must be addressed through thorough, transparent analysis.Jerome County sits atop the Eastern Snake River Plain Aquifer, a critical water source. Any facility built here must earn public trust through rigorous review and robust community engagement. Idahoans deserve clear, evidence-based answers on safety.
Will It Be Reliable?
One potential benefit of SMRs is baseload power—steady, 24/7 electricity that complements the variable output from wind and solar. That’s appealing. But will it perform under real-world conditions? Can it operate with minimal downtime and integrate smoothly with Idaho’s grid? These are essential questions—especially for a technology yet to be deployed commercially.
What Will It Cost?
Affordability matters. Idahoans need energy that’s not just clean, but cost-effective. Solar and wind remain the cheapest new electricity sources, while nuclear projects have historically faced high costs and delays.We’ve seen this firsthand. NuScale previously partnered with the Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems (UAMPS) to build a similar SMR facility at the Idaho National Laboratory. Initially projected at $5.3 billion, the cost ballooned to $9.3 billion. As costs rose, utilities backed out—unwilling to pass risks onto ratepayers. The project was canceled in 2023.If a utility-backed project at INL couldn’t pencil out, it’s fair to ask whether this privately proposed version—using the same technology—can succeed. Idahoans deserve energy investments that make financial sense, not just headlines.
Is the Technology Ready?
We’re in a race to reduce emissions and increase electricity generation. That means prioritizing solutions ready to deploy today. While SMRs show promise, the technology is still new. The Jerome County project would be among the first of its kind globally. Can it be permitted, financed, and built by 2028? That’s uncertain.We hope to better understand how this timeline compares with faster-deploying solutions like wind, solar, and battery storage—as well as promising technologies like geothermal.
Can the Developer Deliver?
Sawtooth Energy is a new player. Building and operating a nuclear facility is a major technical and financial undertaking. As with any major infrastructure proposal, it’s fair to ask: Does the developer have the experience, resources, and partnerships to follow through?Before the public invests time or support, we need clarity on who’s behind the proposal—and whether they can deliver. After all, Idahoans will live with the results—good or bad—for decades.
Let’s Have a Thoughtful, Transparent Conversation
At the Idaho Conservation League, we are open to all energy solutions that help meet public needs, reduce carbon pollution, and protect Idaho’s environment. That includes nuclear—if it can prove itself on the grounds of safety, reliability, affordability, and readiness.This proposal presents an opportunity for an honest, informed conversation about Idaho’s energy future. We look forward to learning more from Sawtooth Energy, NuScale, and other stakeholders. We’ll listen carefully and ask important questions—and we hope others do the same.Our goal is clear: to help Idaho build an energy system that’s cleaner, smarter, affordable, and grounded in the public interest. Let’s start that conversation now—with open minds, tough questions, and a shared commitment to our future.
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We understand there has been some public discussion around Sawtooth’s initial statements and subsequent media coverage. We want to ensure all parties have accurate information going forward and that NuScale’s role — or lack thereof — is clear."