DOE Funds Eight Light-Water SMR Projects Across Eight States
The Department of Energy has awarded energy companies more than $94 million to support the construction and deployment of advanced light-water small modular reactors (Rigzone).
What’s going on: The eight projects across eight states are intended to “spur additional Gen III+ SMR deployments by addressing key gaps that have hindered the domestic nuclear industry in licensing, supply chain and site preparation,” according to the DOE.
The details: The projects come under one of two categories: SMR site selection and preparation (two companies) and SMR supply chain development (six companies).
Some highlights:
- BWXT Nuclear Energy, Inc., will receive $21,423,305 “to procure equipment for an existing facility in Mount Vernon, Indiana,” needed for final assembly of reactor components.
- Scot Forge Company will get $12,267,000 “to procure and install a large vertical turning lathe and gantry style milling machine” to manufacture large components for Gen III+ SMRs.
The big picture: “The funding completes the DOE’s $900 million offer [in] March 2025 to derisk the deployment of Gen III+ SMRs. The projects announced now comprise Tier 2 of the offer.”
Why it’s important: “Light-water SMRs are an important part of the United States’ energy strategy to provide affordable and reliable power to more Americans,” said NAM Senior Director of Energy and Resources Policy Michael Davin. “They offer safety, flexibility in siting and deployment and round-the-clock power production, which is crucial to keeping operations going on shop floors around the country.”
