Reforming Nuclear Reactor Testing at the Department of Energy

This Executive Order directs the Department of Energy to accelerate the development, testing, and deployment of advanced nuclear reactors. It seeks to reform internal Department processes, streamline environmental reviews, and reduce regulatory delays that have hindered nuclear innovation. The Order requires the establishment of a pilot program to build at least three advanced reactors outside national laboratories by July 4, 2026, and mandates expedited timelines for application review and approval. It also instructs the Department to revise NEPA compliance procedures and coordinate with other federal offices to implement these reforms, aiming to restore U.S. leadership in nuclear energy innovation.

60 days; 90 days.

Issue guidance on what qualifies as a “qualified test reactor” — 60 days — DOE Revise internal regulations to expedite reactor approvals and operations — 90 days — DOE Establish internal DOE review teams for qualified reactor applications — upon application receipt — DOE Prioritize qualified test reactor projects — ongoing — DOE Approve at least 3 pilot reactors outside national labs to reach criticality by July 4, 2026 — by 7/4/2026 — DOE Assign DOE review teams to pilot program applicants — upon approval — DOE Reform NEPA compliance procedures — by 6/30/2025 — DOE, in consultation with CEQ Use all legal authorities to expedite environmental reviews — ongoing — DOE Coordinate implementation with DOGE Team, OMB, and OSTP — ongoing — DOE

No known legal challenges.