Request for Application: NRIC Nuclear Energy Launch Pad

Summary (Newest Update)

Background The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the National Reactor Innovation Center (NRIC) are establishing the Nuclear Energy Launch Pad, an initiative aimed at promoting the rapid development and implementation of private industry deployments of advanced nuclear technologies. This initiative builds upon the success of DOE’s Reactor and Fuel Line Pilot Programs, creating an ecosystem to expedite advanced nuclear technology deployment using flexible technical and regulatory frameworks on federal and non-federal lands. Work Details The Nuclear Energy Launch Pad will support various types of nuclear facilities including nuclear reactors, fuel fabrication, fuel cycle facilities (e.g., recycling, enrichment), and other supporting facilities. Applicants must provide detailed plans for their projects including: 1. Waste Management and Decommissioning: Plans for waste streams, handling pathways, and decommissioning strategies. 2. Facility Test Objectives: Explanation of reactor tests planned at the site, including test campaigns, objectives, durations, equipment needs, operator training plans, and management of used fuel. 3. Project Schedule: A detailed schedule from application submission through decommissioning. 4. Site Integration Plan: How the facility interfaces with proposed sites and any additional needs. 5. DOE Authorization Plan: Basis for applying DOE authorization including compliance with safety and environmental regulations. 6. Funding: Explanation of secured funding sources for project activities. 7. Internal Experience & Capabilities: Overview of applicant's experience and management infrastructure. Place of Performance Idaho National Laboratory (INL) and other locations across the United States as part of the Launch Pad initiative.