US: Deep Fission to bury nuclear reactor a mile underground in Kansas

Deep Fission, a US-based company, has announced plans to build its first full-scale commercial small modular nuclear reactor a mile underground at the Great Plains Industrial Park in Parsons, Kansas. This advanced reactor pilot project, called the Gravity Nuclear Reactor, combines oil and gas borehole drilling, geothermal technology, and a pressurized water reactor (PWR) design. The underground placement enhances safety by eliminating the need for large above-ground containment structures and reduces construction costs. The reactor will generate 15 megawatts (electric) and can be scaled by deploying multiple units at the site. The groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for December 9, with construction and criticality targeted for completion by July 4, 2026, pending authorization from the US Department of Energy (DOE). Deep Fission is participating in the DOE’s Reactor Pilot Program, which aims to accelerate advanced nuclear technology deployment through a streamlined regulatory process. The company has signed a letter of intent with the Great Plains Development Authority to collaborate on the pilot