What is high assay low enriched uranium (HALEU)?

HALEU is a special type of uranium fuel that includes up to 20% enriched uranium, distinguishing it from the approximately 5% enriched fuel used in current reactors.

Who is producing HALEU in the United States?

Triso-X, a subsidiary of X-energy, has been licensed by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission to produce HALEU at a plant in Oak Ridge, Tennessee.

Why is HALEU important for nuclear power?

HALEU is crucial for enabling the deployment of advanced reactor designs currently being planned by several companies.

Home / Business and Economy / US Clears Path for New Nuclear Fuel Production

US Clears Path for New Nuclear Fuel Production

14 Feb

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Summary

US regulator licensed Triso-X to produce special uranium fuel.
This HALEU fuel is crucial for advanced nuclear reactor designs.
US aims for a domestic supply, reducing reliance on Russia.

US Clears Path for New Nuclear Fuel Production

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission has issued a license to Triso-X, a subsidiary of X-energy, for the commercial-scale production of high assay low enriched uranium (HALEU). This specialized nuclear fuel is essential for the operation of advanced reactor designs currently under development.

HALEU, which contains up to 20% enriched uranium, has historically been produced primarily in Russia. This new license signifies a major step towards establishing a domestic, American-based supply chain for this critical fuel component.