Next Generation Nuclear Deployment Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Moore, Tim [R-NC-14]
- Committees
- Science, Space, and Technology Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Dec 17, 2025
Bottom line
The bill aims to accelerate the deployment of diverse advanced nuclear reactor technologies by broadening the existing federal demonstration program and fostering private partnerships, with a focus on innovation and energy resilience.
What it actually does
This bill expands the scope of the Department of Energy's (DOE) advanced reactor demonstration program to specifically prioritize the testing and development of a wider array of nuclear technologies, including fourth-generation reactors, small modular reactors (SMRs), and specialized micro-reactors. It mandates demonstrations on at least 10 different sites, including one micro-reactor, and allows testing on non-DOE owned or operated sites. The bill also directs the Secretary of Energy to seek cost-sharing arrangements with private industry and research institutions.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue this bill is crucial for advancing nuclear energy innovation, enhancing energy security, and combating climate change by promoting a wider range of advanced reactor designs, including those suitable for remote areas or specialized applications. They believe it will accelerate commercialization, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and maintain U.S. leadership in nuclear technology.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that expanding the program to include more reactor types without commensurate increases in funding could dilute resources, potentially delaying progress across all technologies. General concerns about nuclear waste disposal, safety, and the cost-effectiveness of nuclear energy compared to other renewables may also be raised, regardless of reactor type.
The bill is very concise and can be read quickly, allowing ample time for a thorough understanding of its provisions and implications.
Section 2(a) of H.R. 6805, amending Section 959A(b) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005
Expansion of Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program Scope
This provision directs the Department of Energy (DOE) to prioritize the testing and development of advanced reactor designs on at least 10 different sites. It specifically includes fourth-generation nuclear reactors (such as sodium-cooled fast reactors, high-temperature gas-cooled reactors, and molten salt reactors), small modular reactors (SMRs) and factory-produced reactors with a generation capacity of not more than 500 megawatts of electricity, and specialized micro-reactors capable of producing up to 10 megawatts of electricity for deployment in remote locations or specialized applications.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this expansion is critical to diversify the U.S. nuclear portfolio, ensuring a broader range of innovative, safer, and more flexible nuclear technologies are developed. They contend that including micro-reactors and SMRs addresses specific energy needs for remote areas and industrial applications, fostering energy resilience and reducing carbon emissions, thereby strengthening national energy security.
Critics contend
Opponents might express concerns that broadening the program's scope without commensurate increases in funding could spread resources too thinly, potentially delaying the progress of any single promising technology. They may also raise general concerns about the safety, waste management challenges, and long-term costs associated with any new nuclear technology, regardless of its generation.
Tradeoffs
The bill balances the desire for broad innovation across multiple advanced reactor types with the potential for resource dilution if funding is not significantly increased. It also navigates the tension between accelerating deployment and ensuring thorough, rigorous testing for novel nuclear technologies.
Section 2(b) of H.R. 6805, amending Section 959A(c) of the Energy Policy Act of 2005
Off-Site Advanced Reactor Testing
This provision amends the existing demonstration projects section to explicitly allow the testing and development of advanced reactor designs on any site, regardless of whether it is owned or operated by the Department of Energy. This removes a potential barrier for private sector or research institution-led projects, offering greater flexibility in where these advanced reactors can be demonstrated.
Section 2(c) of H.R. 6805
Encouragement of Private Sector Cost-Sharing
This provision directs the Secretary of Energy to actively seek cost-sharing arrangements with private industry and research institutions. The objective is to enhance the effectiveness and reach of the advanced nuclear design testing and development program by leveraging external financial contributions and expertise, thereby maximizing the impact of federal investment.