TODAY'S HIGHLIGHTS & WHAT TO KNOW THIS WEEK
- The House passes the Energy & Water Development Appropriations Bill in a narrow vote, slashing over $700 million from EM; Lawmakers consider extensions to the current CR; both chambers move to begin debate on the NDAA. Read more below!
- Don’t miss the opportunity to hear from experts
shaping the future of nuclear finance - join ECA September 10 for a webinar: Investing in Innovation - Financing Advanced Nuclear Projects
- Register now for the National Cleanup Workshop, September 24 - 25
- The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee (EPW)
met on September 3, to discuss Oversight of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Witnesses included DOE Secretary Chris Wright, and NRC Commissioners Bradley Cromwell and Matthew Marzano. Click here to view the recording.
- TVA and
ENTRA1 Sign Agreement for 6-GW, Six-Plant Nuclear SMR Collaboration
- Visit ECA on LinkedIn for regular updates
HOUSE PASSES ENERGY & WATER DEVELOPMENT APPROPRIATIONS BILL - CUTS $700 MILLION FROM EM CLEANUP PROGRAM
The House passed the (FY) 2026 Energy & Water Development Appropriations Bill, H.R. 4553 in a 214-213 vote on September 4. The $57.3 billion package would
cut hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of programs for the Department of Energy (DOE), including over $700 million to the Office of Environmental Management. The bill includes numerous provisions to fund programs to develop and deploy nuclear energy and technology. See the details of these cuts below:
*FY2025 Enacted topline not available for all Offices **NDAA only applies to Office and Programs that require authorization for Defense spending ***NNSA & DOE Discretionary total does not include $4.782 billion in Reconciliation resources for NNSA. The Senate has yet to release Bill text for their version of the Energy and Water Bill, with the Senate Appropriations Committee at an impasse over funding increases. The Senate Bill is not expected to make cuts as large as the House Bill. The current continuing resolution (CR) extending FY2025 appropriations expires at the end of the month on September 30 meaning lawmakers must pass all of the appropriations bills or extend the CR to avoid a government shutdown on October 1. House Appropriations Chair Tom Cole (OK) said lawmakers are considering the latter option, mulling an extension of the CR that could potentially fall between November
6 and November 20. However, other lawmakers and Administration officials are proposing a CR extension that would last into December and even January. The Appropriations Bills can only allocate funding below or equal to the ceiling the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Senate Armed Services Committee Chair, Roger Wicker (AL) said that the Senate could look to pass its version of the NDAA S.2296, by next week, with debate opening on the Senate Floor later today (September 4, at 1:30pm). The
House version of the NDAA (H.R. 3838) will likely be considered on the House floor next week, with the House Rules Committee looking to meet September 8 to consider the Act. ECA looks forward to discussing Energy and Water
Appropriations, the CR, and more pertaining to the future of the EM Cleanup Program at the National Cleanup Workshop, held at the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Arlington Virginia from September 24-25. To learn more about the Workshop and to register, click here! ECA will continue to provide updates on these items as they develop, and will provide and in-depth look at the House Energy and Water Bill later. For more information, check out our website, or review this report from the Congressional
Research Service comparing the previous years’ Energy and Water enacted levels with H.R. 4553 and the President’s request.
OKLO INC. SELECTS TENNESSEE FOR ADVANCED FUEL CENTER, ANCHORED BY NATION'S FIRST PRIVATELY FUNDED NUCLEAR FUEL RECYCLING FACILITY
Nuclear technology company to invest nearly $1.7 billion, create more than 800 jobs in Oak Ridge, Tennessee September 4, 2025 | Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development OAK RIDGE, Tenn. – Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter and Oklo Inc. officials announced today the company has selected Oak Ridge, Tennessee, as the location of a nearly $1.7 billion expansion. Oklo, an advanced nuclear technology company, will create more than 800 new jobs through the project,
which includes the development of an advanced nuclear fuel recycling facility on a 247-acre site at the Oak Ridge Heritage Center. The facility will recycle used nuclear fuel from today’s operating fleet, establishing the nation’s first privately funded nuclear recycling capability and providing a durable, domestic fuel supply for advanced reactors. Oklo is the fifth company to locate in Tennessee utilizing the Nuclear
Energy Fund, which assists nuclear power-related businesses choosing to relocate or grow in the Volunteer State and supports the state’s universities 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. An additional $20 million was allocated and approved in the state’s budget
during both the 2024 and 2025 legislative sessions. The project announced today was vetted and recommended by the Education and Workforce subgroup, part of the 22-member Tennessee Nuclear Energy Advisory
Council. QUOTES
“Tennessee is well-positioned to lead America’s energy independence, which is why we created the Nuclear Energy Fund to support and expand our state’s nuclear ecosystem. We’re proud to partner with Oklo to innovate for the future, while bringing continued opportunity and prosperity to Tennessee families.” – Gov. Bill Lee “Today’s announcement marks another significant milestone for our state in becoming a leader for clean and reliable energy. With assets like Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a rich history in the nuclear industry and leadership that stands ready to support Oklo’s next steps, we know Tennessee is the ideal location for this project and the company’s continued nuclear efforts. We look forward to seeing the incredible impact this project has, and
we’re grateful to welcome Oklo to the Tennessee family.” – TNECD Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter “We’re proud to make this commitment in Tennessee, where our investment will create hundreds of skilled jobs and establish a world-class nuclear fuel center. By recycling used fuel, we’re building the supply chain for the next generation of nuclear technology with advanced fuels that power industry
and support durable jobs for decades to come.” – Jacob DeWitte, co-founder and CEO, Oklo “Tennessee is the core of America’s nuclear renaissance. Under Governor Lee’s leadership, the state is leading the way in attracting the companies that will build America’s energy future. Oklo’s announcement will ensure these innovative nuclear technologies are built and developed in our backyard. TVA is proud to
support Oklo’s work to develop the next-generation of nuclear technologies needed to power AI-infrastructure and drive economic growth.” – Don Moul, president and CEO, TVA “Roane County is proud to be the new home of Oklo. This historic location decision validates our community’s commitment to nuclear energy, made possible only because of the extensive environmental cleanup efforts of the Department of
Energy’s Office of Environmental Management and its contractor, UCOR. Oklo’s presence in the Oak Ridge Corridor is proof that we are successfully completing ‘cleanup today for a nuclear tomorrow.’” – Roane County Executive Mayor Wade Creswell “Oklo’s investment of nearly $1.7 billion is another transformative moment for Roane County, Oak Ridge and the entire region. With more than 800 high-quality jobs
on the way, this project reflects Tennessee’s leadership in innovation, energy and economic opportunity. I’m proud to have supported initiatives like this that secure a stronger economic future for our communities. Because of Governor Lee’s vision, Tennessee is leading the country in nuclear innovation.” – Sen. Ken Yager (R-Kingston) “This project marks an exciting milestone as we welcome another
industry leader in Oklo to Oak Ridge. This significant investment brings more than 800 high-quality jobs to support local families and reinforce the ‘Oak Ridge Advantage.’ I look forward to seeing this project come to life and thank everyone who worked hard to make it happen.” – Rep. Monty Fritts (R-Kingston) Read the full Press Release here.
WHERE WALL STREET MEETS MAIN STREET - JOIN ECA TO LEARN ABOUT FINANCING NUCLEAR PROJECTS ON SEPTEMBER 10!
Wall Street has arrived to Main Street. Understanding financing pathways is no longer optional—it’s a prerequisite for informed local leadership and successful project development. Join ECA in its upcoming webinar featuring panelists shaping financing solutions for new generation of nuclear projects.
Learn about the new business models emerging and how the financing will occur. Nuclear projects will only move forward if they are financeable. While government funding has played a vital role, the new generation of projects are looking at how to structure the “capital stack” and use a mix of private financing (debt and equity), tax credits, and DOE loan program. In addition, the announced Power Purchase
Agreements between utilities and large off-taker such as Google, Meta and Amazon are providing the credit needed to attract financing – once the projects are ready for market. Join a conversation that will bring together government and the private sector to discuss these items and make recommendations on how these projects can move forward to facilitate these exciting business opportunities. This means real
opportunities to attract capital, create jobs, and leverage nuclear projects for broader economic development. Don’t miss this chance to hear from experts shaping the future of nuclear finance. Speakers will include: - Facilitator: Seth Kirshenberg - Executive Director | Energy Communities Alliance and Partner, Kutak Rock LLP
- Andy Roehr - Managing Director | Baker
Tilly Advisory Group, LP
- Anthony Huston - Managing Partner | Quadrant Nuclear Industries
- Chris Lohse - Innovation and Technology Manager | Gateway for Accelerated Innovation in Nuclear
Please contact AJ Ridge, ECA Program Director, with any questions at ajr@energyca.org.
THE NATIONAL CLEANUP WORKSHOP IS THIS MONTH - REGISTER BEFORE YOU MISS OUT!
September 24 - 25, 2025 | Crystal Gateway Marriott | Arlington, VA September is finally here, which means National Cleanup Workshop, to be held September 24-25 at the
Crystal Gateway Marriott - Arlington, VA, is just around the corner!
Join us to hear from Roger Jarrell, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary (PDAS) and Acting Assistant Secretary, U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Environmental Management (EM), and a wide array of federal representatives, industry officials and state and local leaders. We will explore how the Department of Energy’s Office of Environmental Management is working to drive down risks while
also building up new opportunities for communities and the nation.
If you haven’t secured your spot, now’s the time!
WHO'S SPEAKING?
Roger Jarrell | Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary and Acting Assistant Secretary, DOE-EM
James McConnell | Acting Principal Deputy Administrator, NNSA
Greg Sosson | Associate Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for
Field Operations, DOE-EM
Kristen Ellis | Associate Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Regulatory and Policy Affairs, DOE-EM
Brent Gerry | Mayor, City of West Richland, WA; Chair, ECA
Rebecca Casper | Mayor, City of Idaho Falls, ID; Vice-Chair, ECA
Jonathan “JD” Dowell | Senior Vice President, Fluor
Heatherly Dukes | President, BWXT Technical
Services Group
DJ Johnson | Vice President, Federal Solutions Business Enterprise, Honeywell Federal Solutions; Chair, EFCOG
Mark Johnson | Principal Vice President, High Level Waste Facility, Waste Treatment and Immobilization Plant (WTP), Bechtel
Jeff Kendall | President, AtkinsRéalis U.S. Nuclear
Michael Lempke | President, Nuclear and Environmental Services,
HII
Mark Whitney | President, Amentum
...and more!
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Wednesday, September 24 8:00am National Cleanup
Workshop 5:30pm Evening Reception for all NCW Attendees Thursday, September 25
8:00am National Cleanup Workshop EXHIBITS & SPONSORSHIPS
NCW sponsorships offer an excellent opportunity to
showcase your company, maximize networking opportunities with attendees, and host an exhibit booth during the forum. Click here to learn more! STAY CONNECTED
ECA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/energy-communities-alliance
EFCOG Twitter: @EFCOG_now
DOE EM Twitter: @EMcleanup
#NationalCleanupWorkshop SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SUPPORTERS The National Cleanup Workshop is hosted by the Energy Communities Alliance (ECA) with the cooperation of the Energy Facility Contractors
Group (EFCOG) and the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Environmental Management (EM)*.
To make sure you don't miss anything, be sure to subscribe to the ECA Update below!
WHAT YOU'VE MISSED: TVA, ENTRA1 Sign Agreement for 6-GW, Six-Plant Nuclear SMR Collaboration The Tennessee Valley Authority
(TVA) will collaborate with ENTRA1 Energy—NuScale’s exclusive global strategic partner—to develop a 6-GW nuclear portfolio, including six ENTRA1 Energy power plants on TVA sites, the companies announced on Sept. 2 Read the full story Virginia eyes nuclear to power booming data centers The governor laid out an all-of-the-above energy plan for us to rise and meet that need to ensure that we continue the economic development growth that we’ve been experiencing,” says Glenn Davis, director of the Virginia Department of Energy. “It truly is an all-of-the-above [plan], but with a significant focus on … clean baseload power in the form of small modular reactors,” also known as
SMRs. Read the full story Linn Co. Board of Supervisors adopt nuclear energy ordinance LINN COUNTY, Iowa (KCRG) - The Linn County Board of Supervisors officially adopted an ordinance that will open the door to restart the nuclear power plant in Palo.
The ordinance provides the county with more oversight, and gives the county the ability to implement local regulations. This includes control over
the plant location, if it fits into surrounding neighborhoods, and community impacts. The board does not actually decide if the old Duane Arnold Nuclear Power plant will reopen, as that decision is up to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). Next Era Energy is planning to reopen the plant sometime in 2028 to meeting increasing power demands. Last week, a federal commission granted Next Era a waiver allowing it to restart the Palo plant. Read the full story
Gone Fission Podcast - Charles Oppenheimer August 4, 2025 | S5
E4 Charles Oppenheimer, the grandson of atomic pioneer Dr. J. Robert Oppenheimer, is Michael Butler’s guest on this week’s episode of the Gone Fission podcast. Ironically, this episode drops two days before August 6 which will be the 80th anniversary of America's use of the atomic bomb over Hiroshima, a pivotal event that launched the end of World War II--and one in which Charles
Oppenheimer's grandfather, Dr. J. Robert Oppenheimer, played a major role. Charles and Michael sat down at the recent Nuclear Opportunities Workshop in Knoxville, Tennessee, for a wide-ranging discussion that covered everything from nuclear plant financing to what it’s like to be an Oppenheimer in today’s world. Was he surprised that “Oppenheimer” was such a blockbuster hit at the box office? Find out in this week’s episode. https://gonefissionpodcast.com/ NucleCast - Gibum Kim - Navigating South Korean Politics: A New Era September 2, 2025 | S03 E234 In this episode of NucleCast, Gibum Kim from the Korean Institute for Defense Analysis to discuss the recent political
changes in South Korea, particularly the impact of the new Democratic Party leadership on foreign policy, especially regarding North Korea and the US-South Korea alliance. They explore the philosophical differences between the political parties regarding denuclearization, the future of the US-South Korea alliance, and the challenges posed by China. The conversation concludes with Gi-bum's wishes for the future of South Korea's security and international relations. https://rss.com/podcasts/nuclecast-podcast/
Investing in innovation - Financing Advanced Nuclear Projects Webinar | September 10 Register Here National Cleanup Workshop 2025 Arlington, VA | September 23 - 25 Learn More Here ECA New Nuclear Forum 2026 Augusta, GA | April 21 - 24 Learn More Here
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