Energy Secretary Unveils Plan for New Small Modular Reactors
Energy Secretary Chris Wright has unveiled an ambitious initiative to construct three small modular reactors (SMRs) at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) by July 4, 2026. This effort aligns with a recent presidential order that aims to promote nuclear power development in Japan.
In a discussion with Senator John Barrasso (R-WY), Wright expressed his intent to establish these reactors to generate electricity at INL, noting the importance of accelerating existing ideas and putting them into action for testing and validation.
Wright, who has been a prominent figure in promoting President Trump’s “American Energy Control” agenda, identified the Nuclear Regulation Authority as a significant barrier to the swift growth of the US nuclear sector. He reminisced about the industry’s rapid expansion during the 1960s and 70s, recalling that over a hundred plants were built in a short time. However, he pointed out that after initially moving quickly, progress has stagnated over the past few decades.
His remarks followed President Trump’s recent dismissal of NRC Commissioner Christopher Hanson, who had been appointed by the previous administration. While the timing of Wright’s comments may be coincidental, such occurrences are not uncommon in Washington. Currently, the US lacks operational SMRs, with the NRC only able to approve two SMR-related projects, both associated with Nuscale Power, indicating that the administration may view Hanson as a hindrance to advancement.
It’s uncertain if these measures will pave the way for a successful implementation of the proposed plan, but the outcome carries significant implications for America’s energy future, especially in light of concerns regarding regional power grid stability. Many grids are facing reliability issues due to the intermittent nature of wind and solar energy. A revival of nuclear power, alongside the ongoing growth of natural gas production, could provide the necessary stable energy base during periods when renewable sources falter.
The Department of Energy has also announced a new pathway for testing advanced reactors, marking a step towards improving the nuclear testing process by the set date. The DOE is now seeking proposals from qualified US reactor companies interested in establishing and operating test reactors outside of national laboratories under its certification framework. This initiative aims to ensure at least three reactors achieve operational importance by the specified target date.
The announcements aren’t confined to just SMRs; Wright has emphasized that this initiative allows American innovators to explore next-generation nuclear technologies, fostering economic growth and enhancing national security. The initial proposal applications are due by July 25, 2025, with additional submissions being accepted continuously.
Wright has long maintained that nuclear power stands as the only scalable zero-carbon alternative to fossil fuels, emphasizing its reliability compared to wind and solar, even when paired with backup batteries. Recent developments reiterate this message, reflecting Wright’s consistent dialogue with President Trump, who continues to value these insights.
