The United States Department of Energy has just announced $19.1 million in funding to support nuclear energy research and development. This funding adds to the nearly $1 billion that the DOE has provided for nuclear energy research since 2009. Assistant Secretary for Nuclear Energy Kathryn Huff emphasized the importance of U.S. universities and colleges in advancing clean energy technologies and fostering the next generation of nuclear scientists and engineers. The funding will support university faculty, scholarships and fellowships for students, and nuclear research projects.
While wind and solar energy often receive more attention, nuclear power has the potential to replace air pollution-producing fossil fuels like gas and oil. The government is investing heavily in research and development to make nuclear energy safer and more efficient. Despite public concerns stemming from incidents like the Chernobyl disaster, proponents argue that nuclear power is already safer than commonly believed and produces minimal air pollution.
Robert Hayes, an associate professor of nuclear engineering, highlighted the benefits of nuclear energy in addressing climate change and energy security. He emphasized the need for the U.S. to expand its use of nuclear energy as a sustainable and low-risk alternative to fossil fuels. Recently, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission issued its first construction permit for a new type of nuclear test reactor in decades, signaling a renewed interest in nuclear energy development.