Orano USA to build uranium enrichment facility in Tennessee

Orano USA, a French company specializing in nuclear power and renewable energy, has announced plans to construct a significant uranium enrichment facility in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. This multibillion-dollar project, which will span 750,000 square feet, is expected to create approximately 300 jobs in the region. The announcement was made by Governor Bill Lee, who emphasized Tennessee's status as a leading state for nuclear energy investments. The facility aims to enhance the domestic supply of nuclear fuel, particularly in light of recent legislation signed by President Biden that seeks to reduce reliance on imported enriched uranium from Russia. Currently, about 12% of uranium used in U.S. nuclear power plants is sourced from Russia, highlighting the need for energy independence. To support the project, local entities including the city of Oak Ridge, Roane County, and the state’s nuclear fund will each contribute $5 million for utility preparations at the site. Orano USA's CEO, Jean-Luc Palayer, indicated that the next steps involve securing federal support and customer commitments, as well as obtaining necessary licensing from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to bolster the domestic uranium fuel industry, which has received a financial boost of approximately $2.7 billion through recent legislation. Senate Speaker Randy McNally underscored the importance of developing clean and efficient nuclear power as a pathway to achieving energy independence for the nation.