Breaking News: Trump Live Updates on Apple and EU Tariffs, Harvard Lawsuit, and Key Developments

On Friday, President Trump signed four executive orders to boost nuclear power plant construction in the U.S. This includes developing new, smaller reactors that promise quicker deployment, though they’re still untested.

One order tells the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to simplify its process. It aims to approve new reactor applications within just 18 months and suggests lowering safety limits for radiation exposure. Critics worry that this could compromise safety standards.

Another order instructs the Energy and Defense departments to investigate potential reactor sites on federal land or military bases. This could allow them to sidestep some NRC regulations, speeding up the process further.

Trump’s administration aims to quadruple the nation’s nuclear power capacity from nearly 100 gigawatts to 400 gigawatts by 2050. To put this in perspective, one gigawatt can power around one million homes.

Doug Burgum, the interior secretary, called this a game-changer for the nuclear industry, claiming it could undo over 50 years of heavy regulation. Yet, since 1996, only three new reactors have been completed. The high costs and delays have left many companies hesitant. Recently, two reactors at Georgia’s Vogtle plant ran up a $35 billion price tag—double initial estimates and seven years late.

Contrast this with the budding interest in smaller reactors that companies have started to develop. These designs could be cheaper and easier to replicate, leading to potentially lower costs for utilities. However, none have been built yet, though projects are starting in Wyoming, Texas, and Tennessee.

Some industry experts point to the NRC as a major hurdle. They argue that many existing regulations are outdated and not suited for modern reactors, which are designed to minimize meltdown risks. Jacob DeWitte, CEO of Oklo Inc., expressed excitement about the new orders and called for a shake-up at the NRC.

Historically, the NRC was created to be independent. However, Trump’s directives could shift that balance. Scott Burnell, an NRC spokesperson, stated they would comply with the new orders while assessing their implications.

Safety remains a significant concern. Edwin Lyman from the Union of Concerned Scientists warns that a hasty shift in regulations could jeopardize public trust in nuclear energy. He stresses that another major accident could set back nuclear power significantly, particularly as other countries may choose to avoid U.S. technology.

Despite bipartisan support for nuclear energy due to its low emissions, opposition still exists, notably from those worried about waste disposal and safety. A recent survey found that while 64% of Americans support nuclear energy, fears still linger about its potential hazards.

While the executive orders signal a push for growth, significant challenges remain. Experts agree that more financial support might be necessary to stimulate investment, especially in new reactors that could be expensive to build.

The Energy Department has around $400 billion available for loans, which might help restart old nuclear plants and fund new ones. However, downsizing in federal staff could disrupt these plans.

In summary, while there are ambitious goals for nuclear energy in America, balancing safety with speed in development will be crucial for success.

For further details, you can refer to official resources like the White House and reports from the Union of Concerned Scientists.

Source link

Trump, Donald J,Immigration and Emigration,Customs (Tariff),Protectionism (Trade),Federal Budget (US)