The Biden-Harris Administration unveiled a set of targets and guiding principles aimed at expanding nuclear energy capacity in the United States. The framework aims to increase U.S. nuclear energy capacity by 200 gigawatts (GW) by 2050, which would at least triple the nation’s current nuclear capacity.
Under this plan, the U.S. seeks to reach 35 GW of new nuclear capacity by 2035 and build out the capability to deploy 15 GW of nuclear capacity annually by 2040. These goals are expected to be met through a mix of constructing new nuclear power plants, upgrading existing reactors, and potentially restarting reactors that had previously closed for economic reasons.
According to the administration, this nuclear expansion is designed to provide a clean, reliable, and affordable electricity source while enhancing grid resilience. Nuclear energy currently supplies 20% of U.S. electricity and is the source of about half of the country’s carbon-free power. The administration asserts that nuclear energy will be essential to achieving a net-zero emissions economy by 2050.
The framework includes a commitment to environmental protections, safety, public health, and community engagement. It also highlights priorities such as tribal sovereignty, environmental justice, and addressing the legacy of past nuclear programs, including cleaning up uranium mine waste in affected communities and on tribal lands.
The plan identifies nine focus areas to support these goals, including:
- Building new large-scale and small modular reactors (SMRs), as well as microreactors.
- Extending and expanding the lifespan of current reactors through license renewals and power increases.
- Improving the efficiency of licensing and permitting processes.
- Developing a skilled nuclear workforce and robust supply chains.
- Addressing management of spent nuclear fuel.
The framework is set to involve collaboration with various government agencies, including the Department of Energy, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and the Department of Defense, along with private sector and community stakeholders.
The administration will initiate consultations with tribal leaders and issue a public request for information to gather input on the framework’s implementation.
