PIKETON, Ohio — Oklo Inc., specializing in advanced fission technology, recently signed a land rights agreement with the Southern Ohio Diversification Initiative (SODI). The agreement includes options for siting two powerhouses in Piketon, with plans dating back to their May 2023 announcement.
Under the terms of the agreement, Oklo gained an option and right of first refusal to purchase land in Piketon from SODI, contingent on specific conditions and an upfront fee.
Jacob DeWitte, Oklo’s CEO, expressed optimism about the region’s potential, emphasizing collaboration with the local community. However, concerns arise as Oklo, in 2023, disclosed plans to build two nuclear reactors on the site, sparking additional controversy in the community.
Adding to the mix, Newpoint Gas proposed a Hydrogen Power Plant at the site of the former Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant, contributing to ongoing efforts for redevelopment led by SODI. The Southern Ohio Diversification Initiative aims to revitalize the contaminated PORTS site.
Controversy surrounds the region, with Centrus, awarded a $150 million contract for High-assay-low-enriched-uranium (HALEU) production, contributing to the debate. HALEU, a vital nuclear fuel, is crucial for advanced nuclear reactors and naval vessels. While Centrus secured licensure for domestic HALEU production, concerns persist due to the history of contamination at the adjacent Gaseus Diffusion Plant.
The cleanup of the GDP has stirred controversy since its initiation, with Zahn’s Corner Middle School closing in 2019 due to reported contamination. The discovery of Neptunium 237 in air samples prompted concerns, leading to health implications and heightened cancer rates in Pike County. Reports of radioactive isotopes in surrounding areas and a direct link between radioactive contamination and the “Atomic Plant” have fueled community opposition.
Centrus, producing HALEU in Piketon, asserts stringent safety measures, but community members demand transparent oversight and accountability. Activists, alarmed by elevated cancer rates, push for compensation under the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA), citing potential health risks linked to the Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant.
While Oklo’s collaboration with SODI signifies economic development, the shadow of safety concerns looms large, amplifying the debate over the future of nuclear endeavors in Piketon.