Department of Energy announces funding for development of advanced nuclear energy

More than $30 million could be awarded in fiscal year 2018 to support cost-share projects that result in innovative nuclear reactor designs and technologies, according to a Department of Energy (DoE) funding opportunity announcement (FOA) on Thursday.

Applications for fiscal year 2017 are due on Jan. 18. However, FOA will remain open over a five-year period with applications being accepted and reviewed on an annual basis. Total awards in fiscal year 2018 will be subject to funding availability, and additional funding will be allocated by Congress in future years.

“Targeted early-stage investment in advanced nuclear technology will support a strong domestic industry now and into the future,” Energy Secretary Rick Perry said. “This funding opportunity is an important step to ensure our nation continues to benefit from this clean, resilient source of electricity.”

The ultimate goal of the FOA is to advance nuclear power in the United States. A secondary goal is to encourage U.S. companies to partner with federal agencies, public and private laboratories, institutions of higher education and other domestic groups to develop industry-driven reactor designs. Throughout the process, groups will be encouraged to share information needed to develop innovative technologies.

More information about funding opportunities will be made available in a webinar scheduled for Jan. 9.