On May 23, 2025, President Donald Trump signed a series of executive orders aimed at revitalizing the United States' nuclear energy sector. These directives seek to streamline the regulatory approval process for new nuclear reactors, bolster domestic nuclear fuel supply chains, and reduce reliance on enriched uranium imports from Russia and China.

The executive orders invoke the Defense Production Act, a Cold War-era law that grants the president authority to direct industrial production for national defense purposes. By leveraging this act, the administration aims to enhance the reliability of domestic nuclear fuel supply chains and decrease dependence on foreign uranium sources. Additionally, federal agencies are instructed to identify suitable locations on federal lands for new nuclear facilities and to streamline construction procedures. The Department of Energy is directed to expand the use of loan guarantees to support these initiatives.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright emphasized the importance of these measures, stating that the current energy transition is akin to a "new Manhattan Project." He highlighted the necessity of reliable and affordable electricity to support the growing demands of the tech sector, particularly artificial intelligence technologies.

The announcement has already impacted financial markets, with shares in uranium mining and nuclear utility companies experiencing significant gains. For instance, Uranium Energy Corp rose by 11.8%, Energy Fuels Inc by 13.2%, and Centrus Energy Corp by 19.6%. Among utility and technology firms, Constellation Energy Corporation gained 5.5%, GE Vernova Inc. 3.3%, Vistra Corp 4%, and NuScale Power Corporation 14.1%.

This move is part of a broader effort to meet increasing U.S. electricity demand, driven in part by the expansion of artificial intelligence technologies. Energy Secretary Chris Wright has likened the current energy transition to a "new Manhattan Project," emphasizing the importance of reliable and affordable electricity to support the growing demands of the tech sector.

The executive orders build upon previous legislative actions, such as the Prohibiting Russian Uranium Imports Act signed into law by President Biden on May 13, 2024. This act banned the importation of low-enriched uranium from Russia, aiming to reduce U.S. reliance on Russian nuclear materials and revive the American nuclear fuel industry.

The administration has also proposed reforms to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to expedite the approval process for new nuclear power plants. Draft executive orders suggest weakening the independence of the NRC and relaxing rules that protect the public from radiation exposure, with the goal of jump-starting a nuclear power "renaissance."

In February 2025, President Trump established the National Energy Dominance Council through an executive order. Chaired by Interior Secretary Doug Bergum and vice-chaired by Energy Secretary Chris Wright, the council is tasked with advising the president on strategies to achieve energy dominance by boosting domestic energy production.

The revitalization of the nuclear energy sector is expected to have significant social and societal implications. By reducing reliance on foreign uranium imports and promoting domestic energy production, the administration aims to enhance national security and energy independence. Additionally, the development of new nuclear facilities is anticipated to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in regions where these plants are constructed.

President Trump's executive orders mark a pivotal moment for the U.S. nuclear energy industry, signaling a strong federal commitment to its revitalization. As the nation grapples with increasing energy demands and the need for clean energy solutions, the success of these initiatives will depend on balancing economic growth, environmental stewardship, and public safety.