Brian Gitt of Oklo

Small nuclear power plants offer a promising solution to meet the growing demand for reliable, clean energy. But this small-scale approach to nuclear power can fulfill its potential only if it can overcome three key challenges: cost, build time, and public perception. This presentation dives deep into these challenges and provides an overview of the financial, operational, and environmental ramifications of small nuclear plants.

• Discover how cost misconceptions are countered by simplified design, factory-prefabrication, and fuel recycling
• Examine how small nuclear power projects navigate Federal, State, and local permit requirements
• Determine why small nuclear power plants are walk-away safe and how they cool themselves without relying on people, pumps, or mechanical systems to remove heat

Biography:

Brian leads business development for Oklo, a startup developing next-generation nuclear technologies to deliver reliable low-cost clean energy 24/7. He spent over two decades building companies in the clean energy industry—first as executive director of a green building trade association, then as CEO of a consulting firm specializing in clean energy. More recently he founded UtilityScore, a software startup that estimated utility costs and savings for 100M+ homes, and he led business development at a hard tech company developing wireless power. He now writes and speaks about the need for energy that’s clean, reliable, and affordable.

Caleb Tomlin of EPRI

Jay Brister of Blue Sky Nuclear

Fusion energy is making headlines today with an increased frequency to help mitigate climate change.  Long sought after as the “holy grail” of energy sources, fusion research has been going on for almost 70 years, with breakthrough always “just another 20 years away.”  So, what is making the difference today? 

Biography:

Mr. Jay Brister is Managing Director of Blue Sky Nuclear, an independent consulting service focusing on commercial nuclear power and the emerging fusion industry.  His prior experience includes leadership roles at General Fusion, AECOM, Babcock & Wilcox, CH2M, and Entergy.  He has served on the Fusion Industry Association board (2022-2023), the Civilian Nuclear Trade Advisory Committee to the US Secretary of Commerce (2019-2020), and several nuclear decommissioning industry task force committees.  Mr. Brister has a B.S. degree in Nuclear Engineering Technology from Thomas Edison State College in Trenton, New Jersey, and is a former US NRC licensed nuclear operator at Grand Gulf Nuclear Station.