Why Nuclear For Utah's Energy Future

Utah’s Energy Challenge

Utah has long enjoyed an abundance of energy. The coming decades will bring new energy challenges for the state, region and country, but Operation Gigawatt is a proactive plan to turn energy challenges into opportunities, securing an abundance of energy for decades to come.

Utah’s Energy
Challenge

Utah has long enjoyed an abundance of energy. The coming decades will bring new energy challenges for the state, region and country, but Operation Gigawatt is a proactive plan to turn energy challenges into opportunities, securing an abundance of energy for decades to come.

Nuclear Energy in the U.S.

The United States maintains and operates the largest fleet of nuclear reactors in the world, with

Currently,

These plants generate roughly

at 54 power plants across the country.

states host nuclear power plants.

of the country’s electricity and nearly half of our clean energy.

Benefits of Nuclear

Energy for Utah

Benefits of Nuclear Energy for Utah

You’d be surprised at the range of benefits nuclear provides—from dependable, 24/7 power and flexible, grid-balancing output to zero-carbon electricity with a compact footprint, stronger energy independence, and well-paid, long-term local jobs. Here are just a few of the many benefits to explore:

Nuclear plants generate electricity without emitting carbon or other air pollutants.

Existing nuclear power plants employ between 500 to 800 people directly—in high-paying, long-lasting jobs.

Uranium is so energy dense that a soda can’s worth of uranium can meet the lifetime energy needs of the average Utahn.

See all benefits

How is Utah supporting

nuclear energy?

How is Utah Supporting nuclear energy?

As Utah's primary office for energy and mineral development, OED is charged with implementing the gov.'s energy vision. Our office has been exploring nuclear energy to determine if it is a fit for Utah. Our work includes: implementing Governor Cox’s 10-year energy plan, Operation Gigawatt, working with the legislature to develop evidence-based energy policy, and collaborating with local communities and other stakeholders.

OED oversees the Nuclear Energy Consortium (HB 249) and is actively engaged in public education, outreach and related efforts.

Learn more about
Operation Gigawatt

Strategic Nuclear Energy
Pathways Series

Learn How Nuclear

Energy Works

Learn How Nuclear Energy Works

Nuclear reactors function using fission—splitting uranium atoms to release heat that produces steam for electricity production. Learn more below about the mining and fuel preparation steps, how small modular reactors operate, and how nuclear waste can be  safely managed.

Learn How Nuclear
Power Works

Advanced Nuclear
Technologies

Utah’s Uranium Resources
and Nuclear Power