Jennifer M. Granholm Secretary, U.S. Department of Energy | Official Website
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced a $2.7 billion investment from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda to boost the domestic nuclear fuel supply chain. The DOE issued a request for proposals (RFP) to purchase low-enriched uranium (LEU) from domestic sources, aiming to enhance uranium enrichment capacity in the United States and reduce reliance on Russian imports.
"DOE is helping jumpstart uranium enrichment capacity here in the United States, which is critical to strengthening our national security and growing our domestic nuclear industry," said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. "Today’s announcement underscores America’s commitment to remaining the global leader in nuclear energy for generations to come."
Assistant to the President and National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi added, "Strengthening our domestic nuclear fuel supply chain will be critical as we continue to move from an energy system reliant on foreign suppliers and fossil fuels to one that embraces cleaner sources of power and domestic manufacturing." He emphasized that under President Biden's leadership, there has been significant expansion in clean energy production, creating good-paying union jobs and enhancing energy security.
Vanessa Z. Chan Chief Commercialization Officer for the Department of Energy
| Official Website
The development of domestic LEU capacity aims to ensure a reliable fuel supply for existing U.S. reactors and future nuclear technologies both domestically and internationally. The DOE intends to sell the acquired LEU to utilities operating U.S. reactors, supporting clean energy generation while reducing dependency on Russian imports.
The DOE also emphasizes local benefits for impacted communities and prioritizes environmental justice within these projects. The department plans to award two or more contracts lasting up to ten years, with proposals due by August 26, 2024.
This initiative aligns with the Biden-Harris Administration’s broader efforts toward providing affordable, reliable electricity and creating clean energy jobs while building resilient supply chains free from Russian influence. On May 14, 2024, President Biden signed the Prohibiting Russian Uranium Imports Act, establishing a ban on importing LEU from Russia.
Further information about DOE's initiatives can be found in their Pathways to Advanced Nuclear Commercial Liftoff report which supports research and development aimed at achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
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