DOE says move is step in building ‘coherent, end-to-end nuclear energy strategy’
The US Department of Energy (DOE) has issued a request for information (RFI) inviting states to express interest in hosting nuclear lifecycle innovation campuses, a new effort to modernise the nation’s full nuclear fuel cycle and strengthen its leadership in advanced nuclear energy.
The DOE said the move marks the first step towards potentially establishing voluntary federal-state partnerships designed to advance regional economic growth, improve national energy security, and build a coherent, end-to-end nuclear energy strategy for the country.
The proposed campuses could support activities across the full nuclear fuel lifecycle, including fuel fabrication, enrichment, reprocessing used nuclear fuel, and disposition of waste.
Depending on state priorities and regional capabilities, the sites could also host advanced reactor deployment, power generation, advanced manufacturing, and co located data centres.
The DOE is inviting states to provide “clear statements of interest and constructive feedback” on the structure of the innovation campuses. Submissions should outline priorities such as workforce development, infrastructure investment, economic diversification or technology leadership, and describe the scope of activities the state would host.
The DOE said states are also encouraged to identify the funding structures, risk sharing approaches, incentives and federal partnerships needed to establish and sustain a full-cycle innovation campus.
Responses to the RFI are requested no later than 1 April 2026. Interested parties can learn more and respond at SAM.gov
