The Biden administration needs to appoint a director for nuclear energy policy if it is to unlock the full potential of the American civil nuclear industry and deliver more affordable, reliable, and secure energy to domestic and international markets, a think tank said.

Third Way, a centre left group based in Washington DC, said a “whole-of-government” approach to civil nuclear policy is critical, especially as the US faces increasing competition from nations like Russia and China, which wield their civil nuclear exports as tools for geopolitical leverage.

A director for nuclear energy policy can coordinate and focus efforts to promote energy independence and reduce vulnerability to authoritarian influence, Third Way said.