Investigation of potential sites for coal-to-nuclear energy transitions in the United States

Abstract

To achieve deep decarbonization in the U.S., the rapid deployment of clean energy resources is crucial. Coal Power Plants (CPPs), a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, are being phased out in many countries, including the U.S. As part of this transition, there is a need to repurpose retired CPPs to alternative clean sources, -- one possibility is nuclear energy. This study systematically evaluates the potential for Coal-to-Nuclear (C2N) energy transitions in the U.S using the Siting Tool for Advanced Nuclear Development (STAND). Through an extensive analysis of 245 operational CPPs in the U.S., categorized into two groups based on their nameplate capacity, a comprehensive siting assessment has been provided in this paper. The findings reveal a varied feasibility landscape: for smaller sites (Group-01), the most suitable CPP, “R M Schahfer” in Indiana, scored an overall feasibility objective function value of 84.31, while “SIUC” in Illinois was the least suitable at 51.52. For larger sites (Group-02), feasibility scores ranged from 47.29 at “New Madrid” in Missouri to 76.62 at “AES Petersburg” in Indiana. Safety, socioeconomic factors, and proximity attributes are significant determinants in feasibility scoring. The diversity in nuclear restrictions and energy prices across sites significantly influenced their suitability for nuclear deployment. The study also highlights the importance of regional attributes. It provides a targeted approach for policymakers, utilities, and energy modelers in prioritizing C2N transitions, marking a critical step toward the United States’ deep decarbonization goals.