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.

Several companies, including Oklo, Valar Atomics, and Aalo Atomics, had begun construction by last October. Antares has started building its Mark-O reactor, receiving DOE approval for its safety analysis. Deep Fission broke ground in Parsons, Kansas, in December, securing necessary permits.

This program aims to generate crucial test data for future commercial licensing with the NRC. DOE's coordination streamlines federal efforts and clarifies pathways for advanced reactors. Participants are also collaborating with the NRC on licensing processes, with some designs receiving early NRC engagement.

Significant private funding has materialized for these projects, with companies like Radiant, Deep Fission, and Valar Atomics raising substantial amounts. This shift from research and development to execution has boosted investor confidence, leading some companies to go public. The DOE's focus on an accelerated commercialization pathway is instrumental in this investor enthusiasm.