What is the goal of the US Reactor Pilot Program?

The program aims to accelerate the development and testing of new nuclear reactors, with a target for at least three to achieve criticality by July 4, 2026.

Which companies are participating in the DOE's accelerated nuclear program?

Ten companies are involved: Aalo Atomics, Antares Nuclear, Atomic Alchemy, Deep Fission, Last Energy, Oklo, Natura Resources, Radiant Energy, Terrestrial Energy, and Valar Atomics.

How does the DOE program expedite nuclear reactor development?

The program allows participating developers to bypass the lengthy Nuclear Regulatory Commission permit process and expedites environmental reviews.

Home / Business and Economy / US Nuclear Race: Reactors Aim for Criticality by July 2026

US Nuclear Race: Reactors Aim for Criticality by July 2026

24 Feb

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Summary

Ten developers selected for accelerated nuclear reactor pilot program.
Projects aim for criticality by July 4, 2026, bypassing NRC permits.
DOE expects multiple reactors to achieve criticality by the deadline.

US Nuclear Race: Reactors Aim for Criticality by July 2026

In May 2025, President Trump's executive order initiated an accelerated Reactor Pilot Program, selecting ten nuclear developers. These participants are progressing swiftly, notably exempted from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's lengthy permitting process. The Department of Energy (DOE) can expedite environmental reviews for these companies.

The program mandates at least three test reactors achieve criticality by July 4, 2026. Despite engineering and design challenges for these novel devices, the DOE's Office of Nuclear Energy anticipates multiple reactors reaching this milestone. All participating developers have secured fuel supplies and planned for spent fuel disposal.