Reforming Nuclear Reactor Testing at the Department of Energy
Headline: Department of Energy Ordered to Expedite Advanced Reactor Testing
What it does: The Secretary must issue guidance, revise rules, and fast-track approvals so qualified test reactors operate within two years and approve at least three pilot reactors.
- Faster review and approval timelines for advanced reactor test projects.
- At least three reactors approved outside national labs aiming for criticality by July 4, 2026.
- Shortened or expedited environmental reviews and permitting for Department of Energy reactor projects.
Summary
This order directs the Department of Energy to speed up testing and approval of advanced nuclear reactors for research and demonstration. It requires the Secretary to define qualified test reactors, revise rules, create fast-track teams to assist applicants, and ensure reactors can be operational within two years after a substantially complete application.
The Secretary must also start a pilot program approving at least three reactors outside national labs aiming for criticality by July 4, 2026, and must shorten environmental reviews to speed permitting. The order aims to jump-start domestic nuclear innovation and move new reactor technologies toward production.
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