Fueling Nuclear Future: Accelerating HALEU Production in the US
This act aims to accelerate the domestic production of High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) in the United States, crucial for advanced nuclear reactors. This initiative seeks to enhance the nation's energy independence, potentially leading to more stable energy supplies and improved energy security for citizens. Investments in this technology could also generate new employment opportunities in the energy sector.
Key points
Accelerating Domestic HALEU Production: The act mandates the Department of Energy to establish a program to ensure the availability of HALEU in the U.S., reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
Supporting Advanced Nuclear Reactors: HALEU from Department of Energy inventories will be made available to new reactor projects, aiming to accelerate their development and deployment.
Funding and Independence: Significant funds are authorized for domestic HALEU production, and the act prohibits obtaining uranium from entities controlled by the Russian Federation or China, enhancing supply security.
Potential Benefits for Citizens: In the long term, the development of domestic nuclear energy could contribute to more stable and potentially lower energy prices, as well as the creation of new jobs in the technology and industrial sectors.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_4066
Sponsor: Sen. Barrasso, John [R-WY]
Process start date: 2022-04-07