The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) has selected Bechtel, Sargent & Lundy, and GE Hitachi (GEH) to develop a cost estimate and schedule for a potential small modular reactor (SMR) at the Clinch River Nuclear site in Tennessee. The initiative follows a rigorous selection process aimed at ensuring efficiency and innovation in nuclear power generation.

The project will leverage an integrated project delivery (IPD) model, which streamlines collaboration by aligning all stakeholders under a unified plan. This method promotes cost control, risk-sharing, and timely execution.

A Collaborative Effort for Nuclear Innovation

Unlike traditional nuclear projects in the U.S., this effort will involve TVA, Bechtel, Sargent & Lundy, and GEH working as a cohesive unit to plan, design, and potentially procure, construct, and commission Clinch River Unit 1. By adopting the IPD approach, TVA seeks to enhance project coordination and optimize resource management.

Bob Deacy, Senior Vice President of the TVA Clinch River Project, emphasized the advantages of this approach: “The integrated project delivery model ensures true teamwork. By working toward a shared budget and schedule, we can drive nuclear innovation, minimize costs, and provide our region with clean, reliable, and affordable energy.”

Ontario Power Generation (OPG), TVA’s technology collaboration partner, has successfully implemented the IPD model in multiple generation projects, including its SMR initiative at Darlington in Ontario, Canada.

Leveraging Expertise in Nuclear Construction

Bechtel, a long-time TVA partner, brings extensive experience in nuclear infrastructure, including the completion of Watts Bar Unit 2 in 2016. Ahmet Tokpinar, General Manager of Bechtel’s Nuclear Power division, highlighted the company’s commitment to innovation: “We are honored to be part of this significant project and are eager to apply our expertise and advanced technologies to deliver new nuclear power solutions.”

TVA is also collaborating closely with GEH, OPG, and Synthos Green Energy to develop a standardized design for the BWRX-300. Sargent & Lundy will take the lead on site-specific engineering for the reactor’s potential deployment at Clinch River.

“This marks a pivotal step toward expanding carbon-free nuclear energy in the U.S.,” said Victor Suchodolski, Chairman, President, and CEO of Sargent & Lundy. “With decades of experience, we are proud to strengthen our 40-year partnership with TVA and contribute to this important initiative.”

Scaling SMR Deployment

TVA is exploring the possibility of multiple SMR units at the Clinch River site. The IPD team will assess cost-saving innovations to support future reactor deployments, ensuring a structured progression toward affordable nuclear energy expansion.

Sean Sexstone, Executive Vice President of Advanced Nuclear at GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy, underscored the significance of the partnership: “TVA is assembling a world-class team to spearhead BWRX-300 deployment at Clinch River. Together, we bring deep expertise in nuclear energy and large-scale projects, advancing TVA’s mission to meet growing energy demands with secure, reliable power.”

Next Steps

The project has entered the validation phase, during which TVA, Bechtel, Sargent & Lundy, and GEH will refine cost estimates and scheduling. A multi-party agreement is expected to be negotiated to establish incentives for maintaining financial and scheduling targets. This phase is projected to last 1-2 years.

TVA’s Board has yet to approve SMR construction at Clinch River. The phased approach ensures that each stage undergoes careful evaluation, aligning with TVA’s structured decision-making process before advancing to further development.

About TVA

The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is the largest public power provider in the United States, supplying electricity to 10 million residents across seven southeastern states. Founded 90 years ago, TVA was created to address regional and national challenges through innovative solutions. Its mission encompasses energy production, environmental responsibility, and economic development. With a vast and diverse energy portfolio—including nuclear, hydro, solar, gas, and advanced technologies—TVA plays a pivotal role in driving the country toward a cleaner energy future.

As a corporate agency of the U.S. government, TVA operates without taxpayer funding, generating nearly all revenue through electricity sales. Beyond maintaining and investing in its power infrastructure, TVA supports flood control, navigation, and land management along the Tennessee River system. Additionally, TVA collaborates with local utilities and governments to foster economic growth and job creation.

About GE Vernova

GE Vernova (NYSE: GEV) is a global energy enterprise comprising Power, Wind, and Electrification segments, bolstered by accelerator businesses. With over 130 years of experience tackling global challenges, GE Vernova is at the forefront of the energy transition—simultaneously electrifying the world and working to decarbonize it. The company provides essential electricity that drives economies and enhances public health, safety, and security. Headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, GE Vernova operates in more than 100 countries with approximately 75,000 employees worldwide.

Through its nuclear energy division and global alliance with Hitachi, GE Vernova is a leading provider of nuclear fuel, services, and advanced reactor technologies. This includes boiling water reactors and small modular reactors like the BWRX-300, one of the most innovative and simplified boiling water reactor designs. The company’s nuclear fuel division, Global Nuclear Fuel (GNF), is a top supplier of boiling water reactor fuel and engineering services. GNF, a GE Vernova-led joint venture with Hitachi, Ltd., operates primarily through Global Nuclear Fuel-Americas in Wilmington, N.C., and Global Nuclear Fuel-Japan in Kurihama, Japan.

GE Vernova’s name reflects its mission: “GE” represents its legacy of quality and innovation, while “Ver” and “verde” signify the Earth’s thriving ecosystems. “Nova,” derived from the Latin “novus,” symbolizes a new era of low-carbon energy solutions.

About Bechtel

Bechtel is a globally trusted partner in engineering, construction, and project management for both industry and government. Recognized for its talented workforce and commitment to delivering successful results, Bechtel tailors its expertise to meet client goals, fostering long-term positive impacts. Since its founding in 1898, Bechtel has completed over 25,000 projects in 160 countries across all seven continents. These projects have generated employment, strengthened economies, enhanced infrastructure resilience, expanded energy access, and contributed to a safer, cleaner world.

Bechtel operates across multiple sectors, including Energy, Infrastructure, Manufacturing & Technology, Mining & Metals, and Nuclear, Security & Environmental services. The company provides end-to-end solutions, from initial planning and investment to project execution and operations.

About Sargent & Lundy

Sargent & Lundy is among the world’s most established full-service architectural engineering firms. Founded in 1891, it has earned a reputation as a global leader in power, energy, and decarbonization. The firm’s expertise spans grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, conventional power, environmental solutions, carbon capture, and hydrogen.

Delivering comprehensive project services—from consulting and design to construction management and operations—Sargent & Lundy prioritizes quality and safety. The firm serves public and private clients across various industries, including power, energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

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