A bold move is brewing in De Soto, Kansas! The city is exploring the possibility of hosting a nuclear reactor facility, sparking a conversation about the future of energy in the community. Mayor Rick Walker initiated this interest by sending a letter to the Kansas Department of Commerce on November 20th. This decision comes amidst a broader push across Kansas, with several communities vying for consideration in the TerraPower project, a venture backed by Bill Gates. But what does this all mean for De Soto? Let's dive in.
Back in September, TerraPower, the state, and Evergy signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore this project. FOX4 obtained the city's letter, and on the same day, the Johnson County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution related to the potential facility.
"This is just the first step of saying, ‘We’re expressing that interest, and we’re open to be considered. This is not a final step, so there’s many steps that would happen, once this particular action is taken,'” explained 3rd District Commissioner Julie Brewer. This highlights that while interest is high, many hurdles remain before any concrete plans materialize.
County documents reveal that other cities, including Coffey County (Burlington), Lyon County/Emporia, and Hutchinson, have also expressed interest in TerraPower’s advanced natrium nuclear reactor facility.
Following the Thursday meeting, Chairman Mike Kelly emphasized the importance of providing residents with reliable and affordable power. "We are not binding this board to anything,” he stated. “We’re also not requiring the board to do anything. We’re not promising that something is coming to our community.”
Here's where it gets interesting: The county's resolution didn't involve any immediate financial commitments, and no specific site has been approved. City leaders chose not to comment on camera.
City Administrator Mike Brungardt stated, "As De Soto continues to grow and attract energy-intensive industries, it’s important to understand all potential long-term energy options.” This proactive approach aims to equip the community and future leaders with the knowledge to make informed decisions.
Chairman Kelly also outlined the complex governmental processes involved, including approvals from multiple federal agencies, as well as state, county, and local authorities.
Evergy Spokeswoman Gina Penzig confirmed that the entities involved in the MOU have received numerous letters of interest from various communities across Kansas. "The next step in searching for a potential site for a reactor will be gathering additional information through discussions and meetings with interested communities,” Penzig said. These meetings are expected to begin in the new year.
And this is the part most people miss: A decision on whether to build a nuclear reactor in Kansas is expected to be announced sometime next year by Evergy and TerraPower.
What are your thoughts? Do you believe nuclear power is a viable solution for the future? Share your opinions in the comments below!
