DENVER (KDVR) — The Denver International Airport is soliciting proposals for a feasibility study regarding the possibility of a small modular reactor, which is a type of nuclear reactor, on the campus.

DIA said Wednesday that the project would help benefit its goal of becoming the world’s greenest airport and also be energy independent. The study is projected to cost up to $1.25 million and will take upward of a year to complete.

“Denver leads with bold ideas, and our vision for the future of our airport is no exception,” said Denver Mayor Mike Johnston in DIA’s announcement on Wednesday. “As we work to make DEN the greenest airport in the world, we must explore every innovative solution available to meet the demands of a growing city and a changing climate. Studying the potential of small modular nuclear reactors is a forward-looking step in understanding how we can deliver reliable, clean energy at scale. This is about thoughtful planning, long-term sustainability, and our commitment to a healthier planet for generations to come.”

According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, small modular reactors have a power capacity of up to 300 MW(e) per unit, or about a third of a traditional reactor’s generating capacity. The modular aspect of the reactors also makes it possible for systems to be assembled in factories and transported to the location for installation.

DIA said the small modular reactors are gaining traction in the clean energy sector “for their potential to offer a safe, more scalable and potentially cost-effective approach to generating nuclear power.” Since nuclear reactors run 24/7, one installed on campus would complement already existing renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind.

DIA CEO Phil Washington noted in the airport’s release that it already has solar arrays on 100 acres of DIA land, increased its electric vehicle fleet and achieved energy certification statuses for new construction projects.

DIA said it is planning for when 120 million passengers pass through the airport annually, which is anticipated by 2045.

“But we must plan now and explore all possible options so that we are prepared for the future,” said Washington. “We recognize that the technology is still relatively new and there is much to learn, which is why DEN will conduct a feasibility study to gather facts and information about whether (small modular reactors) could potentially help the airport meet its energy demand and clean energy goals in the future, as well as potential challenges. We know that anything we would do would require significant investment and that (small modular reactors) are complex. So, we are keeping an open mind, learning more and continuing to responsibly plan for the airport’s future.”

The feasibility study will ask questions like whether a small modular reactor is feasible for the airport, what types of technology are available, what the potential costs are and what risks could be involved.

“The airport’s study is an important step in evaluating how different energy options may support Denver’s long-term climate and energy goals,” said Elizabeth Babcock, executive director of Denver’s Office of Climate Action, Sustainability, and Resiliency. “As we plan for a growing population and a changing climate, we must carefully assess all zero-emission options that can deliver reliable power, while weighing potential costs and environmental impacts to ensure a sustainable future.”

This would be the only nuclear reactor operating in Colorado, as another reactor in Fort St. Vrain closed in the early ’90s.