Executive Order on Nuclear Energy Reform

On May 23, 2025, the White House issued an executive order aimed at reforming the testing process for advanced nuclear reactors at the Department of Energy. This order recognizes the important role nuclear energy plays in providing a reliable and diverse energy supply, while also addressing the slowdown in the commercial deployment of new nuclear technologies in the United States. It highlights the necessity to revitalize the country’s nuclear innovation landscape by expediting approvals for advanced reactor designs and promoting domestic production.

The executive order outlines several key actions, including the establishment of a pilot program for the construction and operation of reactors outside of national laboratories, with the goal of achieving operational readiness by July 4, 2026. It also directs the Secretary of Energy to streamline the review process for reactor applications, allowing for quicker operational timelines for qualified test reactors. Additionally, the order seeks to reform environmental review processes to facilitate the development and deployment of advanced nuclear technologies while ensuring safety and compliance with regulatory standards.

These reforms are part of a broader strategy to regain the United States’ leadership in nuclear technology, which has been overshadowed by foreign advancements in recent decades. By encouraging innovation in advanced reactor designs, the administration aims to enhance energy security and support various industries through new applications of nuclear technology. This initiative reflects a significant policy shift intended to revitalize the nuclear sector and ensure that the U.S. remains competitive in the global energy landscape.

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