ST. JOHNS, AZ: A Town’s Journey Through Change

In 2020, the Arizona utility Salt River Project (SRP) announced its plans to cease coal generation at the Coronado Generating Station by 2032. This decision is set to have a profound impact not only on the power grid but also on the entire community of St. Johns, Arizona.

Mayor Spence Udall, safety supervisor at SRP and mayor of St. Johns, explains that the power plants have been central to the community, providing good jobs and supporting local schools and volunteer efforts.

“That impact is felt across the community even if you don’t work there.” 

In response to the upcoming closure, SRP and the St. Johns community began working together to diversify the local economy and explore alternative uses for the Coronado Generating Station’s infrastructure and workforce.

The Department of Energy’s Gateway for Accelerated Innovation in Nuclear (GAIN) stepped in, partnering with MPR Associates and experts at Idaho National Laboratory to study the feasibility and economic impacts of repurposing the station for nuclear power. Their findings suggested that nuclear power could be a viable option, potentially retaining jobs and boosting the local economy.

Beyond energy generation, the collaboration between SRP and the community has led to significant achievements, such as the introduction of broadband internet to the rural area. This development is crucial for attracting new opportunities. As SRP and St. Johns continue to work together, their efforts serve as a testament to the power of collaboration and the potential for other communities facing similar challenges to find innovative solutions and secure a brighter future.

“My hope,” said Christine King, director of GAIN, “is that other communities see that raising your voice and being persistent, you can get the help that you need.  If you are a community and interested in collaborating with GAIN, learn more at gain.inl.gov/community.