Nuclear Industry Hub

U.S. Department of Energy Secretary, Chris Wright:

“Our goal is to unleash American energy, and one of the key pillars of that is next-generation nuclear. We want to get nuclear launched again, and I see that energy, that activity, that land, that willingness to do it right here. I think the nuclear renaissance could begin right here.” Said during Oak Ridge visit on March 14, 2025.

Tennessee Governor, Bill Lee:

"I've know for a long time, as many of you have, that Tennessee is the leader, and certainly has had a historical place in leading, in nuclear energy for our country - in all things nuclear for our country. From the Manhattan Project to today, this region has been pivotal for the nuclear industry in America and in the world." 

U.S. Congressman, Chuck Fleischmann:

“As the leading nuclear energy champion in Congress, I will continue to advocate for expanding nuclear energy nationwide to meet America’s energy needs and the world’s growing demand for power. Nuclear power is affordable, abundant, clean, and reliable and the best way to power our nation and the world through the rest of the 21^st Century and into the 22^nd.

Oak Ridge City Council member, Sean Gleason

"East Tennessee is becoming, once again, after 80-plus years, the place the nation is looking for to lead the next nuclear race. Let Oak Ridge win another race. We've done it before."

Tennessee Valley Authority President & CEO, Jeff Lyash:

“We believe advanced nuclear technologies will play a critical role in our region and nation’s drive towards greater energy security. Enabling and accelerating this technology will take innovation and partnership, as well as discipline and hard work. Nuclear is the most reliable and efficient energy the world has ever known, and TVA is uniquely positioned to help drive this forward."

ETEC President & CEO, Tracy Boatner:

"Governor Lee’s energy priorities and the state’s investment in TVA’s Clinch River small modular reactor project supports economic growth and brings Tennessee one step closer to ensuring America’s energy security. East Tennessee stands ready to prove that once again, the nation’s toughest challenges can be solved in the Oak Ridge Corridor."

University of Tennessee President, Randy Boyd:

“UT Knoxville is the steward of one of the top five nuclear engineering programs in the country producing top-level talent and innovation."

Kairos Power Co-Founder & CEO, Mike Laufer:

“The community in Oak Ridge has been incredibly welcoming. Our expectations were high, but everything has been met and exceeded in terms of the engagement and not just the acceptance but a lot of the excitement that we have seen from the local community.”

NNSA Acting Administrator, Teresa Robbins:

“Thank you for being an amazing community and welcoming the Secretary of Energy. Thank you for welcoming me back, and thank you for your continuous pursuit to bring about the nuclear renaissance. It will happen because of what’s going on in East Tennessee.”