Could "Mini" Nuclear Plants Fuel Your Town? Los Alamos Scientists Say Yes

November 11, 2008 4:31 p.m. EST

Los Alamos, NM (AHN) - Small, underground nuclear power plants, about the size of a hot tub, may soon provide electricity for communities. One mini reactor is capable of powering approximately 20,000 homes.

Designed by scientists at the Los Alamos National Laboratory, the technology is being developed for commercial use by Hyperion Power Generation, which announced recently that the first orders for the reactors have been placed. They have plans to start mass production in the next five years, according to Physorg.com.

The mini reactors can be assembled quicker and transported more easily than current nuclear plants. They also solve the safety concerns many have with current nuclear power plants.

"It is impossible for the module to go supercritical, 'melt down,' or create any type of emergency situation," the company states on its Web site.

Hyperion says the mini reactors, which need to be refueled every seven to ten years, will only produce enough waste every five years to match the size of a softball.