HR6805-119

What This Bill Does

The Next Generation Nuclear Deployment Act amends the Energy Policy Act of 2005 advanced reactor demonstration program. DOE must prioritize testing and development of advanced reactor designs on at least 10 different sites, including at least one specialized micro-reactor. Covered designs include fourth-generation nuclear reactors such as sodium-cooled fast reactors, high-temperature gas-cooled reactors, and molten salt reactors; small modular and factory-produced reactors with capacity of not more than 500 megawatts; and specialized micro-reactors capable of producing up to 10 megawatts for remote locations or specialized applications. The bill also lets DOE test and develop advanced reactor designs on any site regardless of DOE ownership or operation and directs the Secretary of Energy to seek cost-sharing arrangements with private industry.

Who Benefits and How

Advanced reactor developers benefit from more federally supported demonstration opportunities across multiple reactor types and sites. Small modular reactor companies and micro-reactor developers benefit from explicit inclusion in DOE priorities. Remote communities, defense installations, industrial sites, and specialized facilities may benefit if micro-reactors prove reliable for locations not well served by the grid. Private research institutions and host sites benefit because demonstrations are no longer limited to DOE-owned or operated locations.

Who Bears the Burden and How

DOE nuclear energy staff must expand demonstration planning to at least 10 sites and manage cost-sharing relationships. Private industry partners must contribute cost-share funding and meet DOE program requirements. Nuclear regulators and safety reviewers may face more demonstration activity across more sites. Host communities and local emergency planners may need to evaluate siting, safety, security, and waste-management implications.

Key Provisions

• Requires DOE to prioritize advanced reactor testing and development at at least 10 different sites.
• Requires at least one specialized micro-reactor demonstration for remote or specialized applications.
• Expands eligible designs to fourth-generation reactors, small modular reactors up to 500 megawatts, and micro-reactors up to 10 megawatts.
• Allows demonstrations on sites not owned or operated by DOE.
• Directs the Secretary of Energy to seek private industry cost-sharing arrangements.