Three nuclear startups have activated new reactors under a Department of Energy pilot program. The move coincides with Fourth of July celebrations and aims to advance next-generation atomic energy. Energy Secretary Chris Wright described the effort as the start of “America’s nuclear renaissance.”
The companies met a key milestone by bringing the reactor designs online as part of efforts to develop and deploy advanced nuclear technology.
The activations form part of a broader Department of Energy initiative to support emerging nuclear projects. Officials timed announcements to align with Independence Day observances.
The startups still face significant hurdles before the reactors can supply energy at a meaningful scale, according to the reports.