Appalachian Power, an American Electric Power (AEP) company, said Nov. 14 it plans to file an application with the Virginia State Corporation Commission in spring 2025 to bring small modular reactors (SMRs) to Virginia.
In addition, Appalachian Power will apply for part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s $900 million grant program to hasten deployment of SMRs and help reduce customer costs, the company said.
“SMR technology is a key component to providing perfect power to our customers,” said Bill Fehrman, AEP president and chief executive officer. “Appalachian Power and AEP are committed to working with our states to develop energy solutions that align with state policy goals and reliably serve our customers.”
Representatives with Charleston, W.Va.-headquartered Appalachian Power have already identified a potential site for an SMR project on company-owned Joshua Falls property in Campbell County, Va. The site provides access to existing electrical infrastructure that is necessary for a generation project, according to the company, which plans to start the early site permit application process.