President Trump Signs Executive Orders to Revitalize U.S. Nuclear Energy Sector

On May 23, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed a series of executive orders aimed at revitalizing the United States' nuclear energy sector. These directives seek to streamline regulatory processes, expedite reactor licensing, and significantly expand the nation's nuclear power capacity to meet growing energy demands.

The executive orders mandate the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to overhaul its licensing procedures, setting an 18-month deadline for new reactor approvals and a 12-month deadline for existing reactor renewals. Additionally, the Department of Energy (DOE) is tasked with accelerating reactor testing and initiating pilot programs for advanced reactors, including the construction of at least three reactors outside national laboratories by July 2026. These initiatives aim to increase U.S. nuclear capacity from approximately 100 gigawatts to 400 gigawatts by 2050, addressing the escalating energy needs of sectors like artificial intelligence and data centers.

Since 1978, only two new nuclear reactors have begun construction and entered commercial operation in the United States. The nuclear industry has faced challenges such as regulatory hurdles, public opposition, and competition from other energy sources. President Trump's executive orders seek to reverse this trend by facilitating the deployment of new reactor technologies.

The NRC is instructed to revise its regulations to balance safety with economic and national security benefits. This includes adopting science-based radiation limits and streamlining compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act. The reforms aim to reduce bureaucratic barriers and accelerate the licensing process for nuclear reactors.

The DOE is directed to expedite the review, approval, and deployment of advanced reactors. This involves issuing guidance on qualified test reactors and creating a pilot program to construct and operate at least three reactors outside of national laboratories, targeting operational status by July 4, 2026.

The orders direct the Secretary of the Army to establish a program to build a nuclear reactor at a domestic military installation within three years. Additionally, the DOE is to designate AI data centers at DOE facilities as critical defense facilities, with the reactors powering them classified as defense critical electric infrastructure.

Industry leaders like Holtec International and TerraPower support the expedited licensing process, believing it will advance reactor deployment and innovation. However, critics, including former NRC officials and safety advocates, warn that rushing approvals may compromise safety standards and regulatory integrity. They emphasize the need for thorough validation, especially for novel reactor technologies.

By aiming to increase nuclear capacity to 400 gigawatts by 2050, the U.S. seeks to reduce reliance on foreign energy sources and enhance national energy security. The expansion of the nuclear sector is expected to create tens of thousands of high-paying jobs and stimulate economic growth through infrastructure development and technological innovation. Nuclear energy offers a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts. However, concerns about nuclear waste management and potential environmental risks remain.

President Trump's executive orders mark a significant shift in U.S. energy policy, positioning nuclear power as a cornerstone of the nation's energy strategy. The success of these initiatives will depend on balancing the acceleration of nuclear development with maintaining rigorous safety and environmental standards.