The X-energy reactor permit has received federal approval, allowing the company to move forward with plans for four small modular nuclear reactors in Texas. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission approved construction permits for the proposed facility at Dow’s chemical plant in Seadrift.
Announced Nov. 9, the approval covers four Xe-100 reactors. Each would generate 80 megawatts of electricity and 200 megawatts of thermal energy. Together, the reactors could supply 320 megawatts of electricity and industrial heat for Dow’s operations.
The project would become the first advanced nuclear facility approved for an industrial site in the United States. However, construction still depends on Dow’s final investment decision.
X-energy Reactor Permit Advances Texas Project
The proposed Long Mott Generating Station will use high-temperature gas-cooled reactors developed by X-energy. Unlike conventional water-cooled reactors, the Xe-100 circulates helium gas through its core to transfer heat.
The design uses TRISO fuel, which contains uranium particles surrounded by protective coating layers. X-energy says this configuration provides additional protection against releases of radioactive material.
The reactors are intended to replace aging energy infrastructure at Dow’s Seadrift plant. They would supply electricity and high-temperature steam for chemical manufacturing.
X-energy expects the facility to begin operating in the early 2030s. The project still requires a separate operating license from federal regulators.
Safety Concerns Surround Advanced Nuclear Approval
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission completed its safety and environmental reviews before issuing the construction permits.
However, the Union of Concerned Scientists questioned the approval process. Nuclear safety director Edwin Lyman argued that regulators had deferred important safety questions rather than resolving them before authorization.
X-energy maintains that its reactor design includes passive safety features intended to reduce accident risks. Those claims will face further scrutiny as the project advances toward construction and operation.
Amazon Investment Supports Nuclear Expansion
X-energy has attracted investment from technology companies seeking reliable electricity for expanding data center operations.
Amazon’s Climate Pledge Fund previously led a $500 million funding round. Amazon has also supported plans to deploy up to 5 gigawatts of X-energy nuclear capacity.
The company raised approximately $1 billion through its April 2026 initial public offering. However, its shares have since fallen substantially, reflecting investor concerns about construction costs and development timelines.
Small modular reactors are intended to reduce construction complexity through standardized designs. Their cost and scheduling advantages remain largely unproven in commercial deployment in the U.S.
Dow expects to consider a preliminary investment decision in 2027. Full-scale construction would follow a final commitment, with the first reactors targeted for operation in the early 2030s.
