US-based advanced nuclear technology company Last Energy announced that the US Department of Energy (DOE) has approved the company’s preliminary documented safety analysis (PDSA) for its PWR-5 pilot reactor at Texas A&M-Rellis university.

The PDSA establishes the preliminary safety basis for Last Energy’s reactor, facility, and planned operations, marking a critical step in the DOE authorisation process.

The approval means Texas-headquartered Last Energy advances towards DOE authorisation to bring nuclear fuel on site, demonstrate criticality, and operate the reactor.

“PDSA approval is a major step in moving the PWR-5 from construction into operations,” said Adam Lenarz, vice-president of development at Last Energy.