Members of a US House of Representatives subcommittee pledged bipartisan support for the development of nuclear energy, but were warned about plans by Russia and China to dominate the sector at America’s expense.

South Carolina Republican Jeff Duncan, chairman of the energy, climate and grid security subcommittee of the energy and commerce committee, said nuclear energy is the leading source of carbon-free electricity in the US and is among the most reliable sources of power.

In addition, leadership in nuclear technology gives the US “significant geopolitical advantage and leverage”, Duncan said.