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Federal Deal May Provide Plutonium for Next-Gen Nuclear Power in El Paso

KVIA•Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at 9:44 PM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

The U.S. Department of Energy is in advanced negotiations with five private companies, including Oklo Inc., to potentially allow access to weapons-grade plutonium for use in next-generation nuclear reactors. This initiative aims to transform surplus plutonium from old warheads into fuel, addressing fuel shortages faced by advanced nuclear projects. While this move could foster innovation and increase domestic nuclear fuel supplies, it raises concerns about nuclear proliferation and the risks associated with transferring weapons-grade materials to private entities. The negotiations are ongoing, and the outcome could significantly impact the future of nuclear energy in the U.S.

Key Details: • Negotiations with five companies include Oklo Inc., Exodys Energy, SHINE, Standard Nuclear, and Flibe Energy. • The program aims to repurpose surplus plutonium as fuel for advanced nuclear reactors. • Concerns raised by lawmakers about the risks of nuclear proliferation. • Current fuel supply constraints are hindering advanced reactor development.

energy nuclear plutonium advanced-reactors proliferation

People & Organizations

New MexicoDon BeyerEd MarkeyU.S. Department of EnergyJohn GaramendiLos Alamos National LaboratoryMike GoffJacob DeWitteGreg PieferNational Nuclear Security AdministrationOklo Inc.SHINE

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