The Energy Department has launched a fast-track pilot program that will use internal review processes rather than Nuclear Regulatory Commission licensing to bring three advanced nuclear test reactors to criticality by July 4, 2026. The initiative seeks to accelerate deployment of next-gen designs, but experts warn the timeline is tight even for the most mature concepts. Most US advanced reactor projects are not expected to achieve criticality until later in the decade; however, microreactor projects from Oklo, Aalo Atomics and BWXT are among the few that may meet the DOE's ambitious deadline.
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The New York Power Authority plans to seek support from the Energy Department's Loan Programs Office to help launch the state's newly announced gigawatt-scale nuclear project, according to President and CEO Justin Driscoll. While technology and location remain undecided, NYPA is preparing solicitations for community interest, vendors and financial partners, and has begun hiring for a new senior nuclear leadership role, Driscoll revealed.
A major issue facing the AI-energy sector is the timeline mismatch between the urgent demand for data center infrastructure and the slow pace of energy project development. While market participants push for rapid solutions to power data centers, regulatory and permitting processes can take years, creating a disconnect between supply and demand. The lag is exacerbated by long interconnection queues and the challenges of implementing new, creative approaches that regulators are often hesitant to embrace.
China has lifted a nearly two-year ban on Japanese seafood imports, imposed over concerns about the discharge of treated radioactive wastewater from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station. The move comes as China and Japan seek to improve relations amid economic challenges posed by US tariffs. However, the ban remains for seafood from 10 Japanese prefectures, including Fukushima, and Japanese exporters must meet strict health and safety requirements.
Oregon's 2025 legislative session has closed without action on key nuclear energy proposals, including a bill to allow small modular reactor siting in Umatilla County. However, observers say the tone of the debate is starting to shift as more lawmakers and stakeholders engage in nuclear energy discussions than in prior years. Opponents, including tribal nations and environmental groups, remain firmly against loosening the state's 1980 nuclear ban, citing unresolved waste concerns and risks to treaty-protected lands.
The hydrogen industry is optimistic about preserving the 45V tax credit, and has shifted its strategy to focus on states with vested interests in hydrogen projects. The Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association has gained support from key senators by highlighting the economic benefits of hydrogen and the need to compete with China.
The Senate tax and spending bill passed a procedural hurdle in a 51-49 vote over the weekend, and the chamber could start a "vote-a-rama" on amendments to the package Monday morning. President Donald Trump has indicated that he wants the bill on his desk by July 4.
The UK and Japan have signed new agreements to deepen collaboration on fusion energy research, regulation and workforce development. Separately, UK-based Tokamak Energy and Japan's Furukawa Electric Group have agreed to jointly develop high-temperature superconducting magnet technology in Japan and explore new applications of this technology in sectors such as medicine and propulsion.
