The Tri-Cities has mobilized a unified front to attract a major nuclear supply chain manufacturer.
Community leaders lined up at the microphone in front of the Richland City Council, rallying behind a bid to bring the business to town.
Economic development champions, energy experts, college officials and longtime residents were there. Building trade groups – the carpenters, pipefitters, laborers – showed up wearing orange shirts and vests.
The stakes are high, as Washington Energy LLC’s proposed project is purported to bring $3 billion in development and thousands of jobs. Those staggering stats have the potential to grow and diversify our economy for years to come.
The Tri-Cities, with our deep-seated history in nuclear energy, has a legacy of energy leadership and a can-do mentality.
Those who spoke emphasized the region’s unique expertise and understanding of the nuclear industry. After all, this community is steeped in nuclear power projects dating back to the top-secret Manhattan Project.
We’ve got the know-how to nurture, support and provide workers needed for an advanced nuclear fuel cycle facility.
And we’re also forward thinking as we have an established plan to get the next generation workforce ready as the so-called gray wave of retirements occurs in the industry. Columbia Basin College, in partnership with Energy Northwest, is launching a new learning center to train them.
Noel Schulz, the director of Washington State University Tri-Cities’ Institute for Northwest Energy Futures (INEF), told the council it is working with regional partners to pursue a $160 million grant to advance the region’s nuclear and fusion supply chain activities, including research and development, entrepreneurship, workforce and community partnerships.
Our community’s proactive approach extends beyond nuclear energy, and this momentum is not isolated.
The Tri-Cities is actively pursuing other clean energy initiatives, such as advocating for the construction of small modular reactors by companies like Amazon and X-energy and supporting innovative projects like Atlas Agro’s plans to build a zero-carbon nitrate fertilizer plant.
The Tri-Cities has a proven track record of success when united toward a common goal. From wartime reactor construction to securing funding for essential infrastructure, collaboration always has been key.
By leveraging our existing expertise, developing a skilled workforce and fostering strong regional, state and national partnerships, the Tri-Cities can solidify its position as a leader in the clean energy sector, which promises economic prosperity for our community for years to come. Our collaborative spirit is crucial for success.