POLITICO Energy Trump wants more nuclear power. He’s also dividing the industry.
Aug 22, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Francisco “A.J.” Camacho, a POLITICO E&E News reporter, dives into President Trump's nuclear power initiatives. He highlights the divided landscape, where Silicon Valley startups are favored over traditional nuclear companies. The conversation explores safety concerns, regulatory changes, and the potential repercussions on public trust in nuclear energy. Camacho also touches on recent investigations into wind turbine imports, making for a multifaceted look at the complexities of energy policy.
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Ambitious Pilot With Proof-Of-Concept Focus
- The DOE pilot aims to get three advanced reactors to criticality by July 4 next year as a proof-of-concept rather than full commercial power plants.
- That timeline is extraordinarily ambitious and focuses on demonstration rather than immediate grid supply.
New Licensing Path Through DOE And DoD
- The executive orders let developers pursue DOE/DoD approval instead of the NRC by framing reactors as national security assets for AI and infrastructure.
- That creates an alternate licensing path that bypasses long-standing NRC procedures.
Startups Favored Over Established Firms
- The pilot roster skews toward Silicon Valley-style startups because many established firms didn't apply and startups align with the administration's deregulatory preferences.
- Personal ties between startup leaders and officials also helped shape the participant list.