The White House has issued an order to reinvigorate the United States' nuclear industrial base. President Donald J. Trump signed the directive, aiming to address challenges such as energy independence and national security by enhancing nuclear energy production.
The United States once led in nuclear technology development but now faces a competitive global landscape. The directive states that "swift and decisive action is required" to jumpstart the nation's nuclear energy sector, which has seen reduced deployment of advanced reactor designs compared to other countries.
To address these issues, the policy seeks to expedite and promote nuclear energy production for providing affordable and reliable power while securing supply chains. This includes improving licensing efficiency for advanced reactors and preparing the workforce for future energy needs.
Within 240 days, a report will be submitted detailing recommendations for managing spent nuclear fuel and developing advanced fuel cycle capabilities. It will also include evaluations of reprocessing spent fuel from Department of Defense and Energy reactors, alongside analyses of legal considerations for transferring spent fuel to recycling facilities.
Additionally, within 120 days, plans are expected to expand domestic uranium conversion capacity. This includes halting certain plutonium disposal programs in favor of processing surplus plutonium into usable forms for advanced technologies.
The Secretary of Energy is tasked with updating policies related to excess uranium management within 90 days. Agreements with domestic companies will be sought under section 708(c)(1) of the Defense Production Act to enhance cooperation on low enriched uranium (LEU) procurement.
Funding efforts aim at maximizing new nuclear capacity by facilitating power uprates in existing reactors and constructing new large reactors by 2030. The feasibility of repurposing closed plants as military microgrid hubs will also be assessed.
Expanding the workforce is another priority, with increased participation in Registered Apprenticeships and Career Education programs targeted within 120 days. Educational grants will consider nuclear engineering careers as investment priorities.
This order mandates coordination across multiple departments while adhering to budgetary processes established by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). It aims not only at strengthening national security but also at fostering technological advancement within legal frameworks.
