Oak Ridge bids for DOE Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus
Winning this project would further strengthen Tennessee’s role in securing America’s energy future.
Gov. Bill Lee announced Thursday that Tennessee has submitted a proposal to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to position Oak Ridge as the premier site for a Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus.
The state’s proposal responds to a Request for Information (RFI) issued by the DOE in January. The federal initiative invited states to express interest in hosting integrated campuses, which are a key component of a new effort to modernize the nation’s full nuclear fuel cycle.
Aligning history with modern energy demands
The proposed campuses are designed to support activities across the full nuclear fuel lifecycle. Having these comprehensive capabilities, commonly referred to as the “cradle-to-grave” life of nuclear material, is necessary for energy independence.
Currently, the U.S. imports 71.7% of its enriched uranium, and uses a once-through model before the fuel is considered waste. The proposed Innovation Campus in Oak Ridge aims to close this loop by advancing recycling and reprocessing technologies.
Recently, the federal government awarded more than $19 million to five companies for research and development into used nuclear fuel recycling, but these Innovation Campuses are needed to scale these capabilities.
Beyond fuel processing, these sites could also serve as catalysts for advanced manufacturing, power generation, or AI deployment—sectors in which Tennessee already excels.
“Tennessee’s innovation has positioned the Volunteer State as the global epicenter of nuclear energy,” Lee said. “As our state answered the call during the Manhattan Project and helped shape the course of history, Tennessee stands ready once again to lead in advancing safe, reliable energy solutions our nation depends on. I’m grateful for DOE’s consideration of our proposal and look forward to continued partnership with the Trump administration to secure America’s energy dominance, strengthen national security, and deliver long-term economic opportunity for Tennesseans.”
Why is Oak Ridge ideal for a Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus?
The state’s proposal highlights several factors that make Oak Ridge a strategic fit for the campus:
- Research and security powerhouses: Anchored by Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and the Y-12 National Security Complex, Tennessee has led U.S. nuclear innovation for decades. The region continues to drive advancements in AI, quantum computing, and next-generation technologies.
- SMR leadership: The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) was recently selected for a $400 million DOE award to advance the nation’s first small modular reactor at the Clinch River site.
- Private investment: Tennessee continues to attract major private investment, including a commitment of up to $40 billion in small modular reactor manufacturing from GE Vernova Hitachi.
- Industry density: More than 230 nuclear lifecycle companies operate in the Oak Ridge–Knoxville corridor.
- Regulatory framework: As a Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) Agreement State with more than 60 years of experience, Tennessee offers a predictable regulatory framework. This includes the nation’s first fusion-energy regulatory structure and participation in the FAST-41 program to streamline permitting.
- Legislative momentum: The Tennessee General Assembly demonstrated clear support through Senate Joint Resolution 887, which recognizes the economic and national security benefits of hosting the campus.
What would this mean for federal-state partnerships?
The campus would also open the door for more voluntary federal-state collaborations, allowing for a more streamlined approach to energy innovation.
“Unleashing the next American nuclear renaissance will drive innovation, fuel economic growth, and create good-paying American jobs while delivering the affordable, reliable, and secure energy America needs to power its future,” said U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright. “Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campuses give us the opportunity to work directly with states on regional priorities that support President Trump’s vision to revitalize America’s nuclear base.”
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