NRC issues construction permit for Kairos Power's Hermes test reactor

Kairos Power/Hermes

The NRC approved a construction permit for Kairos Power's Hermes fluoride-salt-cooled demonstration reactor in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, marking the first non-water-cooled reactor approved for construction in the US in over 50 years. Construction is expected to begin in 2024, with a separate operating license still required.

• First non-water-cooled reactor approved for US construction in 50+ years; historic regulatory milestone for fluoride-salt technology
• Located at Heritage Center Industrial Park in Oak Ridge; funded by DOE Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program
• NRC review completed ahead of schedule; mandatory hearing occurred October 2023; operating license application still required before operation