Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter announced yesterday, Tuesday April 15, a grant for BWXT Enrichment Operations, LLC, a subsidiary of BWX Technologies, Inc., to support establishing a facility for the manufacturing of centrifuge assemblies in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, near Oak Ridge National Laboratory
(ORNL).
BWXT plans to create at least 60 new jobs and invest at least $45 million through the project. Additionally, the company announced today the purchase of 96.53 acres in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, where the facility will be located. That site is part of BWXT’s long-term plans to support fuel production for the National Nuclear Security Administration’s (NNSA) defense program mission.
BWXT employs more than 1,140 people in Tennessee, principally at two locations: Nuclear Fuel Services in Erwin and its recently acquired Jonesborough facility.
The announcement also represents the third grant awarded from the state’s Nuclear Energy Fund, which assists nuclear power-related businesses choosing to relocate or grow in the Volunteer State and supports the state’s
educational and research institutions in further developing their nuclear education programs.
The $50 million fund was in Gov. Lee’s recommended 2023-2024 budget and approved by the Tennessee General Assembly. Another $10 million was allocated and approved in the state’s budget during the 2024 legislative session with an additional $10 million recommended in the 2025 budget currently in review.
“BWXT has been a stalwart supporter of the federal agencies that make our nation’s defense successful. We are excited to have them invest in Oak Ridge and continue to serve our federal partners.” – Oak Ridge Mayor Warren L. Gooch
“Roane County is thankful for and excited about BWXT’s investment in Oak Ridge. Our region is the most nuclear friendly in the
nation, and BWXT’s announcement further strengthens our efforts to power America’s nuclear renaissance.” – Roane County Executive Wade Creswell
“We created the Nuclear Energy Fund to foster an ecosystem for this industry to grow and thrive, and I am proud to announce another investment supporting Tennessee’s strategy to lead America's energy independence with clean and reliable nuclear energy. We are
proud to partner with BWXT to drive continued economic growth and create greater opportunity for Tennesseans.” – Gov. Bill Lee
Read the original announcement by clicking here.
