Texas A&M University and Terrestrial Energy have partnered to develop a small nuclear energy reactor on the RELLIS campus. The reactor, an Integral Molten Salt Reactor, will utilize molten salt fission technology to generate power.

Background

The partnership between Texas A&M and Terrestrial Energy began in 2025, after the company joined the RELLIS Energy Proving Ground initiative. The initiative aims to fast-track nuclear energy programs and reactor deployment throughout the United States, following President Donald Trump’s Executive Order 14301.

Texas A&M University System Chancellor Glenn Hagar praised the choice of the RELLIS campus, stating that the university is well-equipped to meet the country’s energy demands. “The Texas A&M System was built to solve problems that matter to Texas and the nation,” he said. “Reliable power is one of those problems. At A&M-RELLIS, we are bringing industry, researchers, and public partners together to work on practical energy solutions that can support growth, strengthen the grid, and prepare students for high-demand careers.”

Energy Demand

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the country is expected to break energy consumption records in 2026, driven by the growing use of natural gas, crude oil, and natural gas plant liquids. Despite the increase in wind and solar energy, the United States still requires other renewable energy sources to meet its energy needs.

Bryan Mayor Bobby Gutierrez welcomed the new program, stating that energy is the catalyst for the state and nation’s progress. “These critical challenges are courageously studied and tested every day at the RELLIS campus, making our community a world-class destination for advancing new technology,” he said.

Next Steps

The United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission has approved licenses for new nuclear facilities across the country, including 15 other states. Texas A&M plans to establish the RELLIS campus as a national hub for energy research and development, with several nuclear facilities and projects expected to be housed on campus in the near future.

Original reporting: Community Impact — Houston — read the source article.