Holdmann to lead discussion about small-scale nuclear energy

Gwen Holdmann will discuss small-scale nuclear energy and its potential in Alaska at a town hall energy discussion on Wednesday, Sept. 21, at 5:30 p.m. at the Noel Wien Library Auditorium in Fairbanks.

Holdmann, the associate vice chancellor of research, innovation and industry partnerships at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, facilitates the Alaska Nuclear Energy Working Group and has explored the use of small-scale nuclear devices as an alternative energy source. Her presentation will provide an overview of those reactors and how they are different from traditional nuclear energy, as well as the advantages, drawbacks and safety record of such technology. A question-and-answer session will follow the presentation.

“This event will be an opportunity for the community to learn about small-scale nuclear reactors and what adoption of the technology might look like in Alaska,” Holdmann said. “This introduction is just the start of a dialogue about our energy future and how nuclear energy might fit in.”

The event is being hosted by UAF’s Alaska Center for Energy and Power and the Northern Alaska Environmental Center.

ADDITIONAL CONTACT: Richelle Johnson, 907-786-0703, rmjohnson6@alaska.edu