Nuclear Power Takes Flight: Denver Airport’s Radical Energy Independence Plan

Denver International Airport is taking its first steps toward potentially becoming the world’s greenest airport with nuclear power. Officials have issued a Request for Proposals for a feasibility study on small modular reactors (SMRs). The study will cost between $1 million and $1.25 million and take 6-12 months to complete.

The airport currently uses 40-45 megawatts of electricity but expects needs to grow to 400 megawatts by 2050. This major increase is due to expansion plans and growing passenger traffic, which reached 82.3 million last year and could hit 120 million by 2045.

Denver’s electricity demands are set to skyrocket tenfold by 2050 as passenger numbers surge toward 120 million.

SMRs offer a different approach to nuclear energy than traditional plants. They’re smaller, scalable, and use cooling methods like molten salts or liquid metals. These reactors can generate up to 300 megawatts each and would occupy between 10 and 100 acres per unit. Unlike geothermal energy which has a minimal land use compared to other renewables, SMRs require dedicated space for safety and operational needs.

The timing works well with Colorado’s new energy policies. Starting August 2025, the state will classify nuclear energy as a clean energy resource. The airport is funding the study with its own money, not taxpayer dollars.

No SMRs have been fully permitted or built in the U.S. yet. Critics point to nuclear power’s history of cost overruns and concerns about waste storage. Many environmental groups have expressed concerns about nuclear waste lasting for generations. There’s still no national repository for spent nuclear fuel in America.

Some community members worry about safety risks at a major transportation hub. Local council members have expressed concerns about transparency and community involvement. Critics suggest solar and wind power with battery backup as proven alternatives.

Airport officials emphasize this is just a study. There’s no commitment to build anything yet. If implemented, SMRs would provide zero-emission energy, supporting the airport’s sustainability goals. The project could also attract businesses with high energy needs, like data centers.

Whether Denver’s airport becomes a pioneer in nuclear-powered aviation facilities remains to be seen, but they’ve certainly started the conversation. The initiative was first announced by DEN CEO Phil Washington at a BusinessDen event, signaling the airport’s serious intention to explore nuclear options.