ACU’s NeXT lab powering Abilene’s clean-energy potential

ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – Construction of the Abilene Christian University (ACU) Nuclear Energy eXperimental Testing Laboratory, also known as the NeXT lab, has been accelerated for completion. ACU has partnered with Natura Resources and Texas Tech University on this project.

The boost in funding comes from Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s recent approval of the appropriation of funds, which will enable the design and construction of the project. ACU President Dr. Phil Schubert said this development is a major step in the process and is entirely in line with the notoriety the project has brought to Abilene and the university.

The construction of the Abilene Christian University (ACU) Nuclear Energy eXperimental Testing Laboratory, also known as the NeXT lab, is now on a fast track for completion. ACU has partnered with Natura Resources and Texas Tech University for this project. The increased funding comes from Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s recent approval of the appropriated funds, which will support the design and construction of the facility. ACU President Dr. Phil Schubert stated that this development marks a significant step forward in the process and aligns perfectly with the recognition that the project has brought to both Abilene and the university.

“Knowing that we have something like that at ACU, that we can contribute in meaningful, substantive ways to answering some of the biggest questions that tomorrow holds, is really rewarding. I’m very proud of them,” said Schubert.

The construction permit for the project was obtained in September, and the team has since been focused on design and construction activities. Once completed, the reactor will offer significant research opportunities, marking it as the nation’s first molten salt reactor in 30 years. Schubert believes this development positions Abilene to be a leader in global advanced nuclear training and commercialization.

Schubert went on to explain the vast applications the reactor poses, even in Abilene alone. AI data centers, such as the one being built by Lancium, he says, could be cooled by the large amount of energy generated by the reactor. Additionally, the process results in the creation of rare isotopes, which are used in cancer research, while also desalinating and purifying water.

“This is the front end of what could be a 100-year economic boom in this particular sector of our economy. Texas is positioned, I think, to be one of the, if not the, leaders in this field,” Schubert said.

Construction of the Molten Salt Reactor is projected to be complete by late 2026.