Constellation, the largest producer of carbon-free energy in the U.S., is focusing on how its nuclear power plants will be used in the production of hydrogen and DAC (direct air capture) technology. As part of this initiative, the company is exploring ways to leverage the largest U.S. nuclear power plant to support clean energy advancements and reduce carbon emissions. According to their first sustainability report, which was released on September 7, 2022, 25% of the U.S. fleet is made up of a “clean energy center” model at Constellation’s nuclear power plants, which has contributed to a collaboration between the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and Constellation to implement a pilot project.
Hydrogen and Carbon Capture Innovations at Constellation Energy Nuclear Plants
The Constellation’s nuclear power plants project will demonstrate hydrogen production, storage, and on-site use of nuclear power that will come through Nel Hydrogen’s 1 MW electrolyzer, which is powered by its Nine Mile Point Nuclear Station in Oswego, New York, and the project is expected to begin hydrogen production before the end of 2022. As hydrogen demand is projected to rise to 41 million metric tons per year by 2050, which is four times the current demand, it is increasingly being integrated with traditional gas-fired turbines in power generation.
Alongside hydrogen production, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is funding a study to explore direct air capture (DAC) technology at Byron, Constellation’s nuclear power plant in northern Illinois. As part of this initiative, DOE will provide $2.5 million to Constellation and its partners to support research and development in carbon removal technology. This investment reflects the government’s commitment to leveraging nuclear power for clean energy advancements while addressing global carbon reduction goals.
One of the Largest Producers of Nuclear Energy Explores Direct Air Capture Technology
An article by Power Engineering explains that a chemical solution will be added to water flowing through the facility’s main condenser on the non-nuclear side of the Byron plant. After traveling through the condenser, the water will travel out to the cooling towers. This is where CO2 in the air will attach itself to the chemical solution and be captured and isolated.
This study is expected to be completed in 2023. It is designed to take advantage of the clean water vapor flow from the plant’s cooling towers. Constellation stated that it could lead to the plant becoming a DAC hub.
Around 90% of Constellation’s generation comes from solar, wind, nuclear, and hydroelectric resources. They aim to generate 95% of clean energy by 2030 and 100% by 2040. Moreover, the recent authorization of the Inflation Reduction Act credits the DAC technology.
Conclusion
As the energy sector continues its shift toward cleaner solutions, Constellation is at the forefront of innovation by integrating hydrogen production and direct air capture technology into its nuclear power operations. By leveraging the largest U.S. nuclear power plant, the company is demonstrating how nuclear energy can play a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions and advancing sustainability. With ambitious clean energy targets and support from the U.S. Department of Energy, Constellation is setting a strong example for the future of carbon-free energy production.
Disclaimer: Any opinions expressed in the blog do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Certrec. The content of this blog is meant for informational purposes only.
