Hamilton Reporter

Energy and Water Appropriations Chairman Chuck Fleischmann has expressed his approval following the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's (NRC) decision to permit Kairos Power to construct the Hermes 2 Demonstration Plant. This project, located at Oak Ridge's Heritage Center Industrial Park, will include two new nuclear reactors. Fleischmann, a key advocate for expanding civil nuclear energy in Tennessee and across the United States, highlighted this development as a significant step forward.

"I congratulate Kairos Power on their approval to build Hermes 2 at Oak Ridge’s Heritage Industrial Park. I also congratulate the NRC for their efficient approval of the construction permits to make this milestone for new nuclear a reality," Fleischmann stated. He emphasized that these reactors are the first Gen IV advanced molten salt-cooled reactors intended to produce electricity in the U.S., marking progress towards more clean and reliable nuclear power.

The site for Hermes 2 was previously contaminated during historical projects but has since been cleaned by efforts led by Fleischmann through initiatives like United Cleanup Oak Ridge (UCOR). "This land was previously unusable due to legacy Manhattan Project and Cold War-era weapons efforts... but it is now free of contamination," he noted.

Fleischmann remains committed to advocating for nuclear energy expansion nationwide. He views nuclear power as crucial for America's energy needs and global demand, stating, "Nuclear power is affordable, abundant, clean, and reliable." According to him, advancing nuclear energy is essential for re-industrializing America and reducing dependence on foreign powers.

###