The Biden-Harris Administration has announced the selection of four companies to provide enrichment services aimed at establishing a U.S. supply of high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU). This move is part of the administration's Investing in America agenda, funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, and aims to strengthen America's domestic HALEU supply chain. The initiative supports advanced reactor technologies, creates new jobs, and reinforces America's leadership in the nuclear industry.
"President Biden and Vice President Harris continue to advance nuclear energy—ensuring the nation’s largest source of carbon-free electricity is positioned to slash harmful, planet-warming emissions and power our economy for generations to come," stated U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm.
Ali Zaidi, White House National Climate Advisor, emphasized that "President Biden and Vice President Harris made a big bet on America’s energy potential, and this Administration’s investments to jumpstart our nuclear future are paying off in a big way."
HALEU is enriched uranium between 5% and 20%, making it more efficient than lower-enriched forms. Advanced reactors will use HALEU for smaller designs, longer operating cycles, and increased efficiencies. The selected companies will bid on producing and storing HALEU as uranium hexafluoride gas for advanced reactors.
The contracts are expected to last up to 10 years with each company receiving a minimum contract of $2 million. Up to $2.7 billion is available for these services depending on appropriations.
The awarded companies include Louisiana Energy Services, Orano Federal Services, General Matter, and American Centrifuge Operating.
This announcement also supports the Justice40 Initiative which ensures that 40% of federal climate benefits flow to disadvantaged communities.
The HALEU acquired through these contracts will support reactors like TerraPower's Natrium reactor and X-energy's Xe-100 under DOE’s Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program.
Further details can be found at the Department of Energy's HALEU Availability Program page.
