Reforming Nuclear Reactor Testing At The Department Of Energy

It seeks to move qualified test reactors from application to operation within two years and expand testing beyond National Laboratories.

What the order does ​

• Directs the Department of Energy to define qualified test reactors within 60 days and overhaul its approval processes within 90 days.
• Requires expedited procedures designed to make qualified test reactors operational at Department-owned or Department-controlled facilities within two years of a substantially complete application.
• Creates applicant-assistance teams reporting directly to the Energy Secretary and prioritizes qualified projects.
• Establishes a pilot program for reactors outside National Laboratories, with at least three approvals and a goal of achieving criticality by July 4, 2026.
• Orders changes to the Department’s environmental-review rules and directs it to eliminate or expedite reviews where legally permitted.
• Directs coordination with the Department’s DOGE Team Lead, Office of Management and Budget, Office of Science and Technology Policy, and Council on Environmental Quality.

Who it affects ​

• Advanced nuclear reactor developers seeking Department of Energy authorization or support.
• National Laboratories and other Department of Energy facilities involved in reactor review, construction, or testing.
• Communities and industries near proposed Department-controlled or off-laboratory reactor sites.

Context ​

The order treats Department-controlled advanced reactors that do not produce commercial electricity as research projects under Department of Energy jurisdiction, without changing Department of Defense authority.