The Department of Energy’s nuclear program could be transformational for the energy sector if even one reactor demonstrates commercial operation safely, writes Foley & Lardner partner Jocelyn Lavallo.
The Department of Energy’s new reactor pilot program is not just another research initiative. It represents a bold experiment to see if advanced nuclear can move from concepts to real projects, and do so rapidly. If successful, this program could redefine how the United States develops nuclear energy; if it fails, it may reinforce lingering doubts about the ability of the U.S. to build next-generation nuclear projects at scale.