July 2025

In our latest edition of NENSC News, the Nuclear Energy and National Security Coalition (NENSC) brings you the latest industry news, events you don’t want to miss, and policies we are watching. Be sure to keep scrolling to learn how you can follow us and stay up to date with the latest information you need. 

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Poneman Joins “Advanced Nuclear” Podcast to

Discuss U.S. Energy Dominance and National Security

NENSC Co-Chair Dan Poneman joined Advanced Nuclear podcast host Jim Howe to explore the evolution of nuclear policy in the U.S, the importance of bipartisan support, and the relationship between government and the nuclear industry. Poneman shares his insights on the priorities of NENSC, his initial views on the Trump administration’s recent nuclear-related executive orders, the significance of U.S. nuclear exports in reducing proliferation risks, and the steps needed to resurrect the domestic nuclear fuel industry. The conversation also addresses the future of nuclear technology, including the development of advanced reactors, and the steps necessary to support a nuclear resurgence in the U.S. 

David Wright Confirmed as NRC Chair. The Senate reconfirmed David Wright on July 28, 2025 as chair of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission by a 50-39 vote. Appointed to the NRC during the first Trump administration in 2018 and tapped as chair in January, Wright’s reconfirmation comes as the Trump administration tries to boost the nuclear energy industry.

NRC Extends Reactor Design Certifications to 40 Years: The NRC has finalized a rule extending reactor design certifications from 15 to 40 years, effective September 15, 2025 The change comes amid leadership changes at the NRC and broader federal efforts to boost nuclear energy development.

DOE Launches Pilot Program to Boost Domestic Nuclear Fuel Production: The U.S. Department of Energy has launched a pilot program to develop advanced nuclear fuel production lines and reduce reliance on foreign uranium. The initiative seeks U.S. companies to build and operate these facilities under DOE authorization, aiming to support advanced reactor development, strengthen national security, and attract private investment. 

World Bank and IAEA Partner to Support Nuclear Energy in Developing Countries: The World Bank Group and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) have signed a partnership agreement to promote the safe and responsible use of nuclear energy in developing nations. This marks the World Bank’s renewed engagement with nuclear power after decades, aiming to help countries meet growing electricity demand with reliable, affordable, and low-carbon energy.

Japan Reverses Nuclear Policy 14 Years After Fukushima: Fourteen years after the Fukushima disaster, Japan is restarting its nuclear reactors and planning new next-generation plants to meet rising energy demand and climate goals amid soaring gas prices and growing power needs from data centers. Currently, 14 of the 54 reactors shut after Fukushima have resumed operation, with restarts expected to continue through 2030. Japan aims for nuclear power to supply 20% of its electricity by 2040, shifting away from heavy fossil fuel reliance. 

U.S. Signs Nuclear Cooperation Agreements with Malaysia and Bahrain: The U.S. signed new civil nuclear cooperation agreements with Malaysia and Bahrain this month, advancing partnerships under Trump’s Executive Order 14299 to expand global nuclear energy collaboration. These deals support future Section 123 agreements and align with Trump’s push to boost U.S. reactor exports and energy leadership.

Breakthrough Institute: Accelerating Commercialization Through Incentivizing On-Time Nuclear (ACTION)

Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists: Why the US Must Protect the Independence of its Nuclear Regulator

Carbon-Free Europe: What Does a Nuclear Revival Mean for the EU’s Decarbonisation Perspectives?

Council on Foreign Relations: Despite Bipartisan Backing, Nuclear’s Future is Uncertain Under Trump

NEI Magazine: DOE Awards Rapid Turnaround Experiments

NY Times: There’s a Race to Power the Future. China is Pulling Away.

POLITICO: DOGE Told Regulator to ‘Rubber Stamp’ Nuclear

Reuters: Trump's Licensing Goals Pile Pressure on Nuclear Regulator

Scientific American: Record-Breaking Results Bring Fusion Power Closer to Reality

Technology Magazine: How Microsoft & Constellation are Enhancing Nuclear Supply

The National: US and Bahrain Sign 'Milestone' Nuclear Co-operation Agreement

UNLV: Keeping the Lights On with Nuclear Waste

Utility Dive: What’s Next for Advanced Nuclear Technology?

White House Council of Economic Advisors: The Economic Benefits of Unleashing American Energy [Report]

WNN: China's Largest Uranium Mining Project Enters Production

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