Nuclear Energy Takes Center Stage in DOE’s Updated Liftoff Report

The US Department of Energy’s Liftoff Report highlights the vital role of advanced nuclear technologies in meeting surging electricity demand and achieving a carbon-free energy future.

Editorial Team (ET)July 11, 2025

The US Department of Energy (DOE) has taken a significant step forward in addressing the future of nuclear energy by releasing its first update to the Pathways to Commercial Liftoff: Advanced Nuclear report. This update comes amid unprecedented growth in electricity demand, driven by artificial intelligence, data centers, and a renewed push for decarbonized, 24/7 power generation. The updated report highlights nuclear energy’s critical role in meeting this demand, with an emphasis on advanced nuclear technologies like the AP1000 reactor and plans to restart closed nuclear plants.

What is the Liftoff Report?

The DOE's Pathways to Commercial Liftoff series is designed to provide public and private sector investors with clear guidance on how and when emerging energy technologies can achieve full-scale commercial adoption. These reports offer a common analytical foundation for making informed investment decisions. Initially launched in March 2023, the Liftoff series covers clean hydrogen, long-duration energy storage, and advanced nuclear energy.

This latest update focuses specifically on the Advanced Nuclear report, a document that reflects evolving market conditions and technological progress since the initial publication.

Surge in Electricity Demand

Since the release of the first Liftoff report, there has been a sharp increase in electricity demand after years of stagnation. This surge is largely driven by the expansion of data centers, artificial intelligence technologies, and the global transition to cleaner energy. These sectors require round-the-clock, carbon-free electricity, and nuclear energy is well-positioned to meet that need.

From Nuclear Shutdowns to Revitalization

In a dramatic shift from just two years ago, when nuclear reactors were being decommissioned across the US, the industry is now seeing a revitalization. In 2024, utilities are extending the operational lifetimes of reactors, uprating their capacity, and in some cases, even restarting closed reactors. The DOE’s Liftoff report highlights this change as a critical turning point for nuclear energy in the United States.

The Differentiated Value of Nuclear Energy

The report emphasizes that nuclear power offers a differentiated value proposition when compared to other forms of clean energy. Not only does nuclear generate carbon-free electricity, but it also complements renewable sources like solar and wind by providing firm, reliable power. Nuclear energy requires less land and fewer transmission resources, making it an efficient option for expanding clean energy capacity. Furthermore, nuclear plants create high-paying jobs and contribute to regional economic growth.

AP1000 Reactors: A Key Player in the Nuclear Future

The AP1000 reactor is positioned as a cornerstone of the DOE’s vision for nuclear energy. The AP1000 is a pressurized water reactor known for its passive safety features and modular design, which allows for faster construction and reduced costs. The successful operation of Vogtle Units 3 and 4, which are the first new reactors built in the US in over 30 years, showcases the potential for further deployment of this technology.

Overcoming Barriers to Nuclear Expansion

One of the biggest challenges for the nuclear sector is the cost of new projects. The risk of cost overruns often deters potential investors, but the DOE suggests several strategies to mitigate these risks. These include public-private partnerships that share financial risks and improve cost estimates by implementing best practices learned from previous projects.

Addressing Infrastructure Gaps

The report identifies a significant gap in the “nuclear and megaproject delivery infrastructure” in the United States. To ensure the successful expansion of nuclear energy, the DOE recommends aligning incentives between project owners and contractors and investing in research to tackle cost overruns.

Economies of Scale in Large Reactors

Large reactors, like the AP1000, offer substantial economies of scale. According to the report, multi-unit plants can generate electricity at costs up to 30% lower per MWh than single-unit plants. This makes large reactors an attractive solution for bulk electricity generation, especially in areas with growing energy demands.

The Promise of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)

While large reactors provide economies of scale, Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) offer flexibility. SMRs are designed for standardized factory production, which can reduce overall project costs. They are ideally suited for replacing aging coal plants or powering industrial processes that require high-temperature heat. Although SMRs are more expensive per MW compared to larger reactors, they may be the right solution for specific applications.

Microreactors: A Niche Solution

Microreactors could play an essential role in specialized energy applications, particularly in remote locations or for industrial uses where their small size and transportability are advantages. The DOE notes that for microreactors to gain widespread adoption, designers will need a committed orderbook of around 30-50 reactors to justify the investment in manufacturing facilities.

Vogtle Units 3 and 4: A Case Study in Nuclear Delivery

The completion of Vogtle Units 3 and 4 marks a significant milestone for the nuclear industry. These units are the first new nuclear reactors to come online in the US in more than three decades, and their success offers valuable lessons for future projects. The report emphasizes that delivering nuclear projects on time and within budget will be essential to achieving commercial liftoff.

Timely and Cost-Effective Project Delivery

For nuclear energy to play a significant role in meeting growing electricity demands and achieving decarbonization goals, the DOE stresses the importance of timely and cost-effective project delivery. The lessons learned from Vogtle’s challenges will be key in shaping future nuclear projects.

The Path Forward for Nuclear Energy

The DOE’s updated Liftoff report makes it clear that new nuclear energy has a critical role to play in the future energy landscape. Not only can it provide a reliable, carbon-free source of power, but it also supports energy security, creates high-paying jobs, and helps ensure an equitable transition to clean energy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the DOE's updated Pathways to Commercial Liftoff: Advanced Nuclear report offers a comprehensive roadmap for the future of nuclear energy. With the growing demand for clean, reliable power, nuclear energy is well-positioned to meet the challenge. The combination of large reactors like the AP1000, SMRs, and microreactors offers flexible solutions to address the energy needs of the future. However, overcoming cost barriers, improving infrastructure, and delivering projects on time will be essential to achieving commercial liftoff.

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