The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) this week announced the award of approximately $60 million to 13 advanced reactor projects—the first under the funding opportunity announcement (FOA) “U.S. Industry Opportunities for Advanced Nuclear Technology Development.” The 13 projects cover a diversity of steps in the commercialization process:
- 4 concern modeling and development pathways;
- 2 concern regulatory assistance and engaging in pre-licensing reviews;
- 2 concern demonstration readiness; and
- 5 other awardees received GAIN vouchers for research and development.
The R&D topics likewise span a broad spectrum, from fuel cycle facilities to reactor design. More information on the awards can be found in the press release.
DOE notes that these are just the first announcements, and a “subsequent quarterly application review and selection processes will be conducted over the next five years.” Moreover, “DOE intends to apply up to $40 million of additional FY 2018 funding to the next two quarterly award cycles for innovative proposals under this FOA.” So keep on the lookout for more opportunities!
The awards follows fast from Secretary Perry’s announcement of a “Statement of Intent” to cooperate on fast-spectrum sodium-cooled advanced reactors. As provided in the announcement: “Cooperation on the development of advanced fast neutron sodium-cooled reactors will explore areas of collaboration ranging from modeling, simulation, and validation to technology testing, access to supply chain, experimental facilities, and advanced materials.” This type of work buttresses Secretary’s claim that DOE wants to refocus on nuclear to make it “cool again.” To learn more about DOE’s bilateral cooperation efforts, please see here.
For more on DOE funding opportunity announcements and how to apply, and on opportunities to take advantage of DOE bilateral cooperation agreements, please contact the authors.