President Donald Trump is poised to sign a series of executive actions designed to invigorate the nation's nuclear energy sector.

These Trump directives aim to reduce significant regulatory hurdles and spark a "nuclear renaissance" by enhancing federal involvement and simplifying procedures, as the Daily Caller reports.

The forthcoming orders envision a dynamic role for the Department of Energy (DOE) in spearheading research and development within the nuclear sphere.

Other federal agencies will also be encouraged to align themselves in support of nuclear energy and its allied research endeavors. Additionally, a prominent element of these directives involves a comprehensive reform of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) aimed at facilitating regulatory changes.

U.S. aims to lead way in nuclear research

One of the key actions will fast-track the testing of nuclear technologies on DOE sites while establishing a pilot program seeking construction within the next two years.

This move is directly associated with the relaxation of restrictions to permit reactor construction on federal properties, notably including land under the jurisdiction of the DOE and the Department of Defense (DOD).

An order prioritizes the NRC to deliver decisions on nuclear licenses within an 18-month timeframe. This is part of an effort to cultivate a culture more inclined to foster nuclear technology advancements.

The NRC, in response to these orders, has expressed its readiness to comply and collaborate with the administration.

Apart from addressing licensing, the executive directives delve into revising frameworks surrounding uranium mining, its enrichment, and mandate federal research bodies to commit to a "Gold Standard Science." This standard emphasizes scientific processes that are reproducible, clear, subject to peer evaluation, and devoid of conflicts of interest.

Addressing nation's energy future

The planned actions emerge amid growing concerns over the aging profile of the United States' nuclear reactors, where the average reactor is 42 years old. This new thrust aims to address the stagnant development rate, with only a couple of new reactors constructed in the past 30 years.

Compounding the urgency is the surging demand for electricity in the country, with forecasts indicating continued growth. Ensuring a steady supply of base load power to meet this demand is thus of national importance. Trump's initiative seeks to strategically place nuclear energy as the backbone of this supply.

Michael Kratsios, who commented on the imminent reforms, underscored the administration's commitment. "America’s energy dominance" as a key goal, he echoed, highlighting the intent to leverage nuclear power in driving down energy costs and improving reliability.

Economic, national security implications emerge

Within the wider context of national policy, these developments resonate with Trump's earlier declaration of a national energy emergency. His administration has consistently emphasized expanding and securing the country's energy infrastructure as central to safeguarding both its economic and national security.

In Kratsios' words, "America's great innovators and entrepreneurs have run into brick walls when it comes to nuclear technologies.” The dismantling of such barriers is a core objective of the planned executive orders, aiming not only to inspire domestic growth but to signal America's readiness to redefine its role in global energy leadership.

Support from federal entities like the NRC is critical in this transformation. As per their spokesperson, the NRC is set to comply with the White House's direction, ensuring constructive engagement with future nuclear programs.

Renewed industry interest, investment

This fresh drive signifies a notable shift in the U.S. energy strategy, particularly in a sector long overshadowed by other energies. By prioritizing nuclear energy, the administration hopes to unlock a period of revitalization akin to the "American nuclear renaissance" envisioned by Trump’s leadership.

Amid these strategic shifts, Wright has voiced optimism about the potential for resurgence in nuclear energy. His viewpoints align with the overarching goal for a significant and timely transformation in the nuclear domain under Trump's administration.

As these executive actions prepare to unfold, the administration anticipates a future where nuclear power plays a pivotal role in achieving energy dominance. Ensuring the vitality and growth of the nuclear sector forms a cornerstone of Trump's energy legacy.