Neighbors concerned about APCO’s plans for small nuclear reactor

[Marlin]

Neighbors concerned about APCO's plans for small nuclear reactor

https://www.wdbj7.com/2026/08/13/neighbors-concerned-about-apcos-plans-small-nuclear-reactor/

[Core Content]

Appalachian Power is evaluating the Joshua Falls Substation in Campbell County, Virginia, as a potential site for Small Modular Reactor deployment. Residents have expressed opposition to the project, citing concerns over eminent domain, transmission line placement, water usage, and the influence of utility companies on local zoning and planning decisions.

This project highlights the challenges utilities face when siting new nuclear infrastructure in rural areas. As developers look to expand grid capacity for data centers and industrial loads, community resistance regarding land use and environmental impacts remains a factor. Success for these SMR initiatives depends on navigating local regulatory approvals and addressing public concerns regarding long-term infrastructure development.

Appalachian Power plans to build one of the first Small Modular Nuclear Reactors (SMRs) in the country in Campbell County, but residents who live near the proposed site have raised concerns about the project.

The reactor would be built at the company's Joshua Falls Substation on Mount Athos Road. The company has not yet determined how many SMRs would be built on the site. Each unit could generate between 300 and 500 megawatts and could power up to 400,000 homes. Power from the project would feed into the regional electric grid. Appalachian Power said there is no identified customer at this time, but that expanded power capacity is needed for the region.

Read the full article at https://www.wdbj7.com:
https://www.wdbj7.com/2026/08/13/neighbors-concerned-about-apcos-plans-small-nuclear-reactor/