JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO –
The Department of the Air Force, in conjunction with the Defense Innovation Unit, announced they have officially selected Joint Base San Antonio as a candidate to host a next-generation energy project that will enhance national security by providing a safe, resilient, and uninterrupted power supply for the installation's critical missions.
Under DAF’s Advanced Nuclear Power for Installations initiative, JBSA will pair with advanced nuclear firm Antares Nuclear, Inc. to deploy a state-of-the-art microreactor on the DoW installation.
“This selection places JBSA at the forefront of energy innovation and installation readiness. Whether a potential cyber attack or a natural disaster, we must be capable of withstanding and recovering from any challenge. Energy resilience is a mission imperative to safeguard our personnel and ensure the success of the joint base’s many important missions,” said Brig. Gen. Randy Oakland, JBSA and 502d Air Base Wing commander.
Support for a safe and renewable energy source is reaching beyond the city.
"Bexar County supports this critical energy project. A secure and resilient JBSA strengthens our entire region, and we are proud to stand with our military partners in this important initiative," Bexar County Judge Peter Sakai said.
JBSA will continue its ongoing energy resilience work with CPS Energy throughout this project. “CPS Energy is a proud partner with JBSA and the City of San Antonio on this cutting-edge energy resilience project,” said Rudy D. Garza, CPS Energy president and CEO. “This initiative aligns with our commitment to exploring innovative, reliable energy solutions that will power our community’s future. We are excited to collaborate to ensure this project integrates seamlessly and safely to support the critical missions at JBSA.”
With safety built into its fundamental design, a small advanced nuclear microreactor that could be deployed at JBSA under the ANPI initiative would require no water for cooling. It would be independent of local water sources.
Additionally, Antares will be responsible for ensuring the small amount of nuclear waste produced from its microreactor will be properly disposed of in compliance with federal law. No nuclear waste, or spent fuel, will remain in San Antonio.
“This advanced energy project is a decisive step toward ensuring JBSA can execute its role without interruption, backed by the highest standards of safety and reliability,” Oakland added. “We are committed to a process built on trust, transparency, and continuous community engagement every step of the way,” he said.
JBSA will work with local, regional, and state officials to develop a process of continued public engagement throughout the initiative's various phases and will provide additional information and opportunities for public involvement, as more information becomes available. on JBSA.mil.
DAF’s full announcement can be found here.