Will a new nuclear power plant be approved in the US before 2028?

Nuclear energy is experiencing a bipartisan renaissance driven by AI data center power demands and clean energy goals. NuScale's SMR design received NRC certification in 2023, and multiple companies (TerraPower, X-energy, Kairos Power) are advancing through the licensing process. The Department of Energy's loan programs and the IRA's production tax credits for nuclear have created strong financial incentives. The question is whether any project completes the full NRC licensing process by 2028, which typically takes 3-5 years.

Last updated: Mar 2, 2026

Resolves YES if the NRC issues a construction permit or combined operating license (COL) for a new nuclear power plant before January 1, 2028. Small modular reactors (SMRs) with NRC approval qualify. Extensions or restarts of existing plants do not count.

Source: Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) Licensing Actions

Expected resolution: January 15, 2028