Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright announced reforms to expedite permitting processes for construction projects on Department of Energy lands, according to a statement on April 3, 2025. These measures aim to reduce regulatory burdens for development, especially at the DOE’s National Laboratories and nuclear weapons assembly plants.
The announcement follows prior actions in March 2025, when Secretary Wright outlined efforts to simplify complex permitting rules affecting construction at the Department’s 17 National Laboratories. The goal is to streamline procedures and enable more efficient project implementation.
Secretary Wright noted support from directors of National Labs and nuclear weapons assembly plants, highlighting coordination with research and operational facilities to implement the permitting changes effectively.
In February 2025, Secretary Wright visited Los Alamos National Laboratory and Sandia National Laboratories in New Mexico, reinforcing the commitment to supporting these key scientific sites through regulatory improvements.