Denver airport delays study of using nuclear power to fuel growth

Denver International Airport has decided to pause plans to commission a study on using nuclear power, less than a week after announcing the exploration of this option. The decision was made following concerns raised by Denver Councilwoman Stacie Gilmore, who represents District 11, which includes the airport.

Gilmore questioned why the airport did not engage with the community before issuing requests for proposals for the feasibility study. In response to her concerns, airport CEO Phil Washington agreed to pull the requests to allow for community input.

In a statement released on Tuesday, DIA stated, “Our goal is to present this idea to the community, listen to their feedback, and understand what they would like to see included in the feasibility study.” While it is unusual to seek community input before the study begins, the airport is willing to do so in this case.

Residents in Gilmore’s district have raised concerns about safety, nuclear waste management, and the impact on the airport and surrounding area. DIA, one of the busiest airports in the country, is considering a small nuclear reactor to meet increasing electricity demands and reduce carbon emissions.

Small modular nuclear reactors offer the benefits of low greenhouse gas emissions and scalability to meet growing power needs. The Colorado General Assembly recently passed a law allowing utilities to use nuclear power to meet clean energy goals.

However, the development of small reactors in the U.S. is still ongoing, with questions remaining about cost and waste disposal. It may take five to ten years before these reactors become operational in the country.

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Original Publication Date: August 13, 2025 at 6:00 AM MDT