Trump Signs Order to Reform Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Boost Reactor Licensing

On May 23, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed an executive order titled "Ordering the Reform of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission," aiming to expedite the licensing process for nuclear reactors in the United States. This directive seeks to overhaul the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to facilitate a significant expansion of the nation's nuclear energy capacity.

Key Provisions of the Executive Order:

• Accelerated Licensing Timelines: The NRC is mandated to establish fixed deadlines for reactor licensing decisions: 18 months for new reactor applications and 12 months for existing reactor renewals.

• Regulatory Revisions: The order instructs the NRC to comprehensively revise its regulations and guidance documents within 18 months, focusing on balancing safety concerns with the economic and national security benefits of nuclear energy.

• Streamlined Hearing Processes: The NRC is directed to streamline its hearing process and revise its National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) compliance regulations to reflect recent legislative amendments.

• Advanced Reactor Deployment: The initiative emphasizes the deployment of advanced nuclear technologies, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and microreactors, with a goal to increase U.S. nuclear energy capacity from approximately 100 GW to 400 GW by 2050.

Background on the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC):

The NRC is an independent federal agency established in 1975, responsible for regulating commercial nuclear power plants and other uses of nuclear materials. Its mission includes ensuring the safe use of radioactive materials while protecting people and the environment. Over the years, the NRC has been criticized for lengthy and complex licensing processes, which some argue have hindered the growth of nuclear energy in the U.S.

Industry and Political Reactions:

• Supporters: Industry leaders, including companies like Holtec and TerraPower, have welcomed the executive order, believing that faster licensing will advance reactor deployment and innovation.

• Critics: Safety advocates and some political figures, such as Senator Edward J. Markey, have expressed concerns that expediting approvals may compromise safety, especially for novel technologies requiring careful validation.

Economic and Social Implications:

• Energy Demand: The initiative aims to meet the surging electricity demand driven by artificial intelligence and data centers, positioning nuclear energy as a key component of the nation's energy strategy.

• Job Creation: The expansion of nuclear energy capacity is expected to create tens of thousands of high-paying jobs, contributing to economic growth.

• Environmental Impact: By promoting nuclear energy, the administration seeks to reduce carbon emissions and enhance energy independence.

Historical Context:

Since 1978, only two new nuclear reactors have begun construction and entered into commercial operation in the U.S. The executive order represents a significant policy shift aimed at revitalizing the nuclear industry, which has faced challenges such as regulatory delays, high costs, and public skepticism.

Potential Challenges:

• Safety Concerns: Critics warn that rushing approvals could compromise safety standards, especially for advanced reactor designs that require thorough evaluation.

• Regulatory Integrity: There are concerns that undermining the NRC's independence could lead to public distrust and potential legal challenges.

• Resource Constraints: The NRC's ability to meet the new deadlines may be hindered by staffing constraints resulting from workforce reductions.

The executive order marks a bold step toward reshaping America's energy landscape by promoting nuclear energy. While it holds the promise of economic growth and energy independence, it also raises critical questions about safety, regulatory integrity, and the feasibility of the ambitious goals set forth. As the NRC embarks on implementing these directives, the balance between innovation and safety will be paramount in determining the success of this initiative.