Reforming Nuclear Reactor Testing at the Department of Energy

5/23/2025

Executive Orders

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Action Summary

Purpose: Reform nuclear reactor testing at the Department of Energy to reinvigorate U.S. leadership in advanced reactor technology and support a diversified, affordable energy supply vital for national security and economic development.
Context and Rationale: Recognizes the stagnation of domestic deployment of advanced reactors; underscores the promise of advanced designs (microreactors, small modular reactors, Generation IV/III+ reactors) for critical applications across various industries.
Defined Terms: Clarifies key definitions including “advanced reactor,” “qualified test reactor” (capable of being operational within 2 years after a complete application), the “Department” (DOE), and “Secretary” (of Energy).
Findings: Notes that no advanced reactor has been deployed in the U.S. to date; emphasizes that current testing is for establishing technological feasibility rather than commercial power production.
Reforming the National Laboratory Process:
- Within 60 days, the Secretary will issue guidance on qualification criteria for test reactors.
- Within 90 days, revise regulations and procedures to expedite review, approval, and deployment at DOE facilities, ensuring reactors can be operational within 2 years.
- Establish a cross-department team to assist applicants and prioritize qualified test reactor projects.
Establishing a Pilot Program: Create a pilot program for reactor construction outside National Laboratories under the Atomic Energy Act, targeting approval of at least three reactors with criticality by July 4, 2026; includes dedicated applicant assistance similar to internal DOE projects.
Streamlining Environmental Reviews:
- Reform NEPA compliance rules in consultation with the Council on Environmental Quality by June 30, 2025.
- Utilize available authorities and alternative procedures to expedite environmental reviews and permitting processes.
Implementation and Coordination: The Secretary will work with the Department’s DOGE Team, the Office of Management and Budget, and the Office of Science and Technology Policy to ensure effective implementation while maintaining legal authority and interagency coordination.
General Provisions: Emphasizes that the order does not impact existing executive or agency authorities, and confirms that it does not create enforceable rights against the government; funding for publication in the Federal Register is ensured.

Risks & Considerations

The Executive Order aims to expedite the development and deployment of advanced nuclear reactors, which could lead to significant changes in the energy sector. This may create opportunities for research institutions like Vanderbilt University to engage in nuclear energy research and development.
There is a potential risk of regulatory and compliance challenges as the Department of Energy seeks to streamline processes and expedite reactor testing and deployment. Vanderbilt may need to ensure that any involvement in nuclear research aligns with new regulatory frameworks.
The focus on nuclear innovation could shift federal research funding priorities, potentially impacting funding availability for other research areas. Vanderbilt may need to adjust its research funding strategies accordingly.
Environmental concerns and the reform of compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) could lead to public scrutiny and opposition, which may affect partnerships and collaborations with federal agencies.

Impacted Programs

Vanderbilt’s School of Engineering could see increased opportunities for collaboration in nuclear reactor design and testing, particularly in areas related to advanced reactor technologies.
The Department of Physics and Astronomy may benefit from increased research opportunities in nuclear physics and reactor technology, potentially leading to new academic programs or research initiatives.
Vanderbilt’s Office of Research might need to develop new strategies to secure funding and partnerships in the evolving landscape of energy research and development.
The Environmental Science Program could play a role in assessing the environmental impacts of new reactor technologies and ensuring compliance with revised NEPA regulations.

Financial Impact

The reallocation of federal funds towards nuclear innovation could impact the funding landscape for other research areas, necessitating adjustments in grant application strategies and partnerships.
Vanderbilt University might experience changes in its funding opportunities, particularly if federal discretionary grants prioritize nuclear energy research. This could necessitate adjustments in research focus and collaboration efforts.
There may be increased opportunities for Vanderbilt to secure funding for research and development in nuclear technology, particularly through collaborations with the Department of Energy and other federal agencies.
As nuclear technology becomes more prevalent, there could be a shift in the focus of research and development efforts at Vanderbilt, potentially affecting resource allocation and strategic priorities.

Relevance Score: 3 (The order presents moderate risks involving compliance and potential shifts in research funding priorities.)

Key Actions

Vanderbilt’s School of Engineering should explore partnerships with the Department of Energy and National Laboratories to engage in research and development of advanced nuclear technologies. This could include collaborative projects on microreactors and small modular reactors, leveraging Vanderbilt’s expertise in engineering and technology.
The Office of Federal Relations should monitor the implementation of the pilot program for reactor construction outside the National Laboratories. By staying informed about these developments, Vanderbilt can position itself to participate in or support these initiatives, potentially leading to new research opportunities and funding.
Vanderbilt’s Environmental Science Department should assess the implications of streamlined environmental reviews for nuclear projects. Understanding these changes can help the university align its research and advocacy efforts with new regulatory frameworks, ensuring compliance and promoting sustainable practices.
The Vanderbilt Project on Unity & American Democracy could analyze the broader societal and political impacts of advancing nuclear technologies. This research can provide insights into public perception, policy implications, and the role of nuclear energy in national security and economic development.

Opportunities

The executive order presents an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Research Centers to secure funding for projects related to advanced nuclear technologies. By aligning research initiatives with federal priorities, Vanderbilt can enhance its reputation as a leader in innovative energy solutions.
Vanderbilt can capitalize on the focus on nuclear innovation by developing educational programs and workshops on advanced reactor technologies. This could attract students and professionals interested in nuclear engineering and policy, expanding the university’s academic offerings and influence in the field.
The emphasis on expediting reactor deployment offers an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Policy Studies to engage in policy analysis and advocacy. By providing evidence-based recommendations, the university can influence how these technologies are integrated into the national energy strategy.

Relevance Score: 4 (The order presents the potential for major process changes required for Vanderbilt’s programs due to opportunities in nuclear technology research and partnerships.)

Average Relevance Score: 3.6

Timeline for Implementation

Within 60 days from May 23, 2025 – The Secretary shall issue guidance defining a “qualified test reactor” (Section 4[a]).
Within 90 days from May 23, 2025 – The Secretary shall revise regulations and expedite review and approval procedures for advanced reactors (Section 4[b]).
No later than June 30, 2025 – The Secretary shall reform Department rules governing compliance with NEPA, streamlining environmental reviews (Section 6[a]).
By July 4, 2026 – At least three reactors approved under the pilot program should reach criticality (Section 5[a]).

The shortest timeline is the environmental review deadline of no later than June 30, 2025, which is approximately 38 days from the order’s issuance on May 23, 2025.

Relevance Score: 4

Impacted Government Organizations

Department of Energy (DOE): The DOE is at the center of this directive, tasked with revising its testing and regulatory procedures, guiding research at National Laboratories (including Idaho National Laboratory), and streamlining the deployment of advanced nuclear reactors.
Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ): The CEQ is engaged in consulting with the DOE to reform environmental review processes under NEPA, ensuring that reactor project evaluations are expedited.
Office of Management and Budget (OMB): The OMB is referenced for collaborating on the implementation of the order, particularly in coordinating budgetary and administrative matters.
Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP): The OSTP is included to work alongside the DOE in the execution of this order, emphasizing the integration of scientific and technological oversight with policy implementation.

Relevance Score: 2 (Between 3-5 agencies are affected by the order.)

Responsible Officials

Secretary of Energy – Charged with issuing guidance, revising regulations and procedures, establishing applicant support teams, and creating a pilot program for advanced reactor testing, thereby driving the execution of nearly all directives in this order.
DOGE Team Lead, Department of Government Efficiency – Collaborates directly with the Secretary to implement the order’s provisions, ensuring coordination across the Department as specified in Section 7.
Director of the Office of Management and Budget – Works with the Secretary on the execution of this order, particularly in the areas of regulatory and budgetary coordination.
Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy – Partners with the Secretary to oversee and support the technological developments and expedited processes for advanced reactor projects.

Relevance Score: 5 (Directives affect Cabinet officials, including the Secretary of Energy and key White House-appointed positions responsible for national energy policy and advanced reactor oversight.)