A California-based startup, Deep Fission, has announced a groundbreaking proposal to deploy nuclear reactors one mile underground, aiming to meet the increasing energy demands from data centers and artificial intelligence operations. This innovative approach utilizes small modular reactors (SMRs) within deep boreholes, leveraging natural geological barriers for enhanced safety and cost efficiency. With a vision that merges established nuclear technology with modern drilling practices, Deep Fission is setting its sights on revolutionizing the nuclear energy landscape.
The company plans to install 15-megawatt reactors into narrow shafts approximately 30 inches in diameter, drilling deep into the Earth. These reactors would operate submerged in water, using the surrounding rock as a natural containment vessel. According to co-founder Elizabeth Muller, this method could reduce construction costs by as much as 90% compared to traditional nuclear facilities, making it a potentially viable solution for powering the rapidly growing data center sector.
Deep Fission aims to capitalize on the surging demand for clean energy, particularly from tech giants that rely heavily on reliable power sources for their AI operations. The startup has already secured $30 million in funding through a reverse merger and is exploring deployment sites in Kansas, Texas, and Utah. In Kansas, the company is collaborating with local utilities to identify borehole locations near data centers, where electricity needs are skyrocketing.
Innovative Technology and Safety Features
The reactors developed by Deep Fission are designed to be “walk-away safe,” meaning they can autonomously shut down in case of anomalies. The underground placement adds layers of protection; the immense pressure and rock formations surrounding the reactors would contain any potential leaks, thus minimizing the risk of contamination. This design could alleviate public concerns about nuclear safety, particularly in light of recent incidents like Fukushima.
Industry observers have expressed enthusiasm about the potential of these reactors. Posts on social media platforms have highlighted the “meltdown-proof” capabilities of the design, praising its disaster-resistant features. Yet, some experts caution that technical challenges remain, particularly regarding the precision required for drilling deep boreholes and maintaining reactor components at such depths. A nuclear expert noted on social media that while the engineering is plausible, scaling the technology will require significant advancements in remote operational capabilities.
Navigating Regulations and Market Potential
Obtaining regulatory approval is another major hurdle for Deep Fission. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has not yet approved this innovative design, but the company is pursuing a streamlined licensing process under new SMR guidelines. They aim to have prototypes operational by 2026, hoping that expedited reviews will align with national goals for energy independence.
The initiative comes amid a broader trend in nuclear innovation, with over 70 gigawatts of new capacity currently under construction worldwide, much of it in Asia. Deep Fission’s underground model could uniquely address public opposition to surface nuclear plants, often referred to as NIMBYism (Not In My Backyard).
Internationally, similar concepts are emerging. For instance, China’s experimental thorium molten salt reactors and Japan’s Yoroi microreactor, designed for remote areas, show that the global interest in innovative nuclear solutions is growing. Both projects emphasize safety and sustainability, aligning with the increasing demand for clean energy.
The potential for cost savings is substantial. Traditional nuclear plants can exceed $10 billion and take over a decade to construct. In contrast, Deep Fission estimates the cost of each unit at under $100 million, with deployment achievable in months. This could make their technology particularly attractive for hyperscale data centers, where companies like Google and Microsoft are seeking low-carbon energy solutions.
Despite the optimism, critics have raised concerns about hidden costs, particularly related to waste management and environmental risks. While the design minimizes surface footprints, questions remain about the long-term radiological impacts on local aquifers.
As Deep Fission progresses towards operational prototypes, the company plans to conduct demonstrations in controlled environments and collaborate with national laboratories for testing. If successful, their vision could spur a new wave of underground nuclear energy, integrating with renewable sources for hybrid energy grids.
Future developments will likely focus on scaling the technology, with Deep Fission aiming to deploy fleets of these reactors to power industrial hubs. Partnerships with firms experienced in fuel supply and drilling techniques will be essential for creating a robust operational framework.
The underground revolution in nuclear energy, as proposed by Deep Fission, could redefine the role of nuclear power in the global effort against climate change. As the world faces increasing energy demands, innovative solutions like this may pave the way for a new era in sustainable energy production.
