Ohio Nuclear Developer Files for Grid Connection, Selects GE Vernova Reactor for 1.5-GW SMR Project
According to Engineering News-Record, Elementl Power has filed for grid interconnection with PJM and signed an Early Works Agreement with GE Vernova Hitachi Nuclear Energy for the first 600 MW of a proposed 1.5-GW small modular reactor plant in southeastern Ohio.
Project Status and Key Details
The developer submitted its transmission interconnection request to PJM Interconnection in April and announced the reactor selection on June 18. Elementl has chosen GE Vernova Hitachi’s BWRX-300 small modular reactor design for the project, which would be built on nearly 700 acres along the Ohio River in Letart Township, Meigs County, roughly 100 miles southeast of Columbus. Elementl has agreed to purchase the property from American Municipal Power and intends to privately finance the project rather than recover costs through utility rates.
The filing moves through PJM’s reformed “first-ready, first-served” interconnection process, which requires developers to show site control and make up-front financial commitments before entering the queue. PJM is expected to review the application later this year. The project still needs U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission licensing, Ohio Power Siting Board approval, and a final investment decision before construction can begin. If all approvals proceed, Elementl says construction of the first unit could start in 2030, with commercial operation targeted for 2034.
What It Means for Subcontractors
- Heavy civil and sitework firms should start tracking this project now. A 700-acre greenfield site on the Ohio River means significant earthwork, access road construction, and infrastructure preparation ahead of any nuclear-specific work.
- Electrical and mechanical contractors with nuclear or large power generation experience are the primary targets for a 600 MW first phase. The 2030 construction start gives firms roughly three to four years to position, qualify, and build relationships with the EPC chain.
- The PJM filing milestone matters. Under the reformed interconnection rules, reaching this stage signals a higher level of project seriousness than early-stage announcements. This is not a speculative proposal sitting in a queue.
- Multiple approval gates remain. The project still requires NRC licensing, state siting board approval, and a final investment decision. Subcontractors should monitor these milestones rather than committing resources prematurely, but the 2030 window is close enough to begin early outreach to Elementl and GE Vernova Hitachi.
