DOE Advances Nuclear Energy with Focus on Advanced Reactors and Fuel Management

Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.

The Department of Energy's Office of Nuclear Energy is advancing nuclear power as a key part of the United States' energy and security strategy by promoting the development and deployment of advanced nuclear technologies.

This includes enhancing the sustainability and safety of the current U.S. reactor fleet through dedicated research and development, while also supporting a pipeline of advanced reactors such as small modular reactors, microreactors, and advanced non-light water reactors. These new reactors aim to improve safety, efficiency, and integration with other energy sources.

Significant DOE funding is allocated to deploying these advanced reactors to meet rising electricity demand across sectors. Beyond reactor development, the office is working to establish a resilient national nuclear fuel cycle and supply chain, ensuring domestic availability of specialized uranium for both existing and future reactors.

Additionally, early-stage research is focused on recycling used nuclear fuel to maximize the use of nuclear materials and enhance sustainability in waste management processes.