Shaping the Future of Energy Nuclear Education

Missouri S&T is developing the Missouri Powerplex: - a first-of-its-kind nuclear-hybrid energy research campus that will power the state's clean energy economy, train the next generation of nuclear professionals, and establish Missouri as a national leader in advanced reactor technology.

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What Is the Missouri Powerplex?
Student preparing to take a measurement using modulated photothermal radiometry.

The Missouri Powerplex is a bold vison of a state and national hub for nuclear-hybrid energy research. Centered on a 10 megawatt Small Modular Reactor (SMR), the Powerplex is designed not just for research - it is designed for the real world.

Unlike traditional university reactors, the Powerplex is an industry-facing testbed. It integrates nuclear energy, thermal and battery storage, and advanced manufacturing to model the hybrid energy systems that utilities, manufacturers, and energy developers need to deploy - today and in the decades ahead.

The Powerplex supports Governor Kehoe's nuclear energy strategy for Missouri and directly addresses national priorities.

Part of a Larger Vision

The Powerplex is one component of Missouri S&T's integrated three-tier nuclear energy strategy, a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape Missouri's statewide nuclear ecosystem.

An upgrade of Missouri S&T's existing research reactor from 200 kW to 5 MWth thermal capacity, modernizing facilities for education, training, neutron science, and foundational reactor engineering. The expanded reactor will train every future nuclear engineer at S&T and enable expanded partnerships with federal agencies and industry.

Shows the current building with an MSTR expansion part, proposed nuclear research lab and proposed classrooms and offices

A 5–10 MWe Small Modular Reactor campus providing applied research, hybrid-energy demonstrations, operator training, and industry collaboration. The Powerplex fills the critical gap between academic reactors and commercial nuclear plants.

A utility-scale SMR to developed through a public-private partnership. When realized, the Gateway Project will deliver safe, reliable power to Missouri while serving as a living laboratory for commercial nuclear engineering, operations, and maintenance.

Together, these three facilities create a cradle-to-career workforce pipeline, from student training to commercial operations experience.

What will the Powerplex Will Do?

The Powerplex integrates an SMR core with thermal energy storage, battery storage, renewable energy inputs, and industrial process loops. Researchers can explore and demonstrate technologies within a controlled, realistic environment.

The Powerplex addresses a critical national shortage of nuclear-qualified engineers and technicians. It will provide hands-on training and anchor a Missouri-based workforce pipeline that will attract employers to the state.

The Powerplex will attract federal investment, industry partners, and clean energy startups to Missouri. It includes incubator space for nuclear and clean energy companies, and creates indirect economic benefits for rural communities through applications in power generation, fertilizer manufacturing, and synthetic fuels.

The Powerplex will align with federal clean energy objectives and serve as a hub for research, development, and demonstration of integrated and smart energy systems.

Why Missouri S&T?

Missouri S&T has the vision, assets, momentum, and partnerships to make this happen.
The university brings unique research infrastructure, the existing Missouri S&T Reactor, and the Missouri Protoplex, alongside established partnerships with reactor manufacturers, national laboratories, and regional utilities.

Timeline

2025 — Concept development and planning
2026–2028 — Site preparation and early construction
2028–2029 — Reactor installation and systems integration
2029–2031 — Commissioning and initial operations

The Moment is Now

Demand for nuclear energy professionals is rising. Federal and state investment in advanced nuclear is accelerating. Missouri S&T has the expertise, the infrastructure, and the partners to lead.