- The U.S. plans to build six nuclear reactors in Kentucky, aiming for a 2028 launch.
- The project aims to bring industrial investment and high-tech job opportunities to the local area.
- The Nuclear Company hopes this plan responds to Donald Trump's call to accelerate energy production.
- Local residents have expressed support for the project, hoping to improve economic opportunities.
Eastern Kentucky in the United States plans to build the nation's largest nuclear power plant, a proposal aimed at expanding the country's electricity production capacity and rebuilding its ability to construct nuclear power plants at scale. The Nuclear Company has announced the "Prosperity One" plan, which will be located along the Ohio River in Lewis County and is expected to accommodate up to six Westinghouse AP1000 nuclear reactors. If fully constructed, these reactors will collectively generate approximately 6.6 gigawatts of electricity. The company has control over the land in the area, plans to begin construction in 2028, and will seek federal approval.
Impact of the Project on the Local Economy
The company is working with local landowners and community leaders to advance this project aimed at bringing industrial investment, high-tech jobs, and long-term economic opportunities to the region.
The Nuclear Company views "Prosperity One" as a response to President Donald Trump's call to accelerate U.S. energy production. According to the announcement, if fully completed, the proposal's campus will become one of the largest nuclear power plants in the world. Joe Klecha, the company's Chief Nuclear Officer, stated, "For generations, the communities along the Ohio River have formed the industrial backbone of America. We are proud to work with the community, leveraging our team's collective experience to provide Kentucky with lasting job opportunities, a stronger tax base, and reliable power." Klecha has 33 years of nuclear experience, including service on U.S. Navy submarines and leadership positions in nuclear fleet operations.
He also oversaw the construction and operational readiness of Vogtle Units 3 and 4. The company stated that its service sector has maintained over 40% of the existing nuclear power facilities in the U.S.
Local landowner and lifelong Lewis County resident Sam Howard is collaborating with the company to advance this development, noting the opportunities it presents for future generations. "I have nine grandchildren, all of whom live in Lewis County. I want them to have the opportunity to stay here," Howard said. "For years, our county has had one of the highest unemployment rates in the state. Such infrastructure projects can provide jobs and economic opportunities for the residents of Eastern Kentucky. I am proud to be advancing this development." Lewis County is also seeking certification as a nuclear-approved community under the Kentucky Nuclear Development Authority framework.
The county leaders unanimously initiated this effort in July 2026 and earlier this month passed a resolution with overwhelming support to submit documents to the authority.
Preparations for Advancing the Project
The Nuclear Company is preparing to advance the engineering, environmental, regulatory, and commercial work for "Prosperity One" to move towards construction. Initial activities include detailed site characterization, geological technical surveys, environmental assessments, transmission interconnection planning, and preparation for federal nuclear permits. Planning will also consider factors such as transportation, housing, environmental protection, emergency preparedness, and water resource use, along with other considerations for a development of this scale. The company plans to engage with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission through its established permitting process, aiming for construction to begin in 2028, contingent upon obtaining the necessary federal approvals.
Potential Economic Impact of the Nuclear Project
Building the nuclear power plant will not only enhance local electricity production capacity but also bring long-term economic opportunities to the community. The support from local residents reflects expectations for future job prospects, especially against a backdrop of high unemployment rates. The Nuclear Company's partnership with the community will help strengthen the local industrial base and may serve as a catalyst for attracting further investment. As the project progresses, balancing environmental impacts with economic development will be a key challenge.