The United States Senate, with broad bipartisan support, has passed the ADVANCE Act to accelerate the deployment of new nuclear energy capacity, including creating new incentives for advanced nuclear reactor technologies. Nuclear energy is seen as an important resource for decarbonization and reliable electricity supply.

Nuclear Breakthrough from the USA

Although nuclear energy has been sidelined in recent decades, it is regaining importance, especially as the fight against climate change intensifies. The reliable electricity supply that nuclear power plants can provide during the transition to renewable energy sources also contributes to this resurgence. The ADVANCE Act contains provisions that will ease the way for the U.S. during this nuclear revival period. A version of the bill had already passed the House of Representatives, and with Senate approval, it only requires President Joe Biden’s signature to become law.

The ADVANCE Act will reduce costs for companies developing and licensing advanced nuclear reactor technologies, provide incentives for the successful deployment of next-generation reactors, and expedite the licensing process for nuclear facilities at certain sites. These measures will accelerate the establishment of new nuclear plants in the U.S., as costs and regulatory processes are among the biggest obstacles they face.

It is worth noting that TerraPower, founded by Bill Gates, is starting to build the world’s first coal-to-nuclear plant, Natrium. However, there are still permits needed for Natrium. This law could greatly benefit companies like TerraPower. A significant portion of the ADVANCE Act focuses on the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), an independent government agency that oversees the use of nuclear energy, including commercial nuclear power plants. The law requires the NRC to be more flexible in its processes and to prioritize public benefits. Steps will be taken to shorten approval processes.