The Trump administration is pushing nuclear startups to use plutonium from Cold War-era stockpiles as fuel for advanced reactors, according to a report from Reuters. The U.S. holds about 100 tons of plutonium, much of it from dismantled nuclear weapons, stored at sites like the Savannah River Site in South Carolina.
The Department of Energy has been exploring ways to dispose of this material, and using it as reactor fuel is seen as a potential solution. However, the plan faces technical and regulatory hurdles, as plutonium-based fuels require specialized handling and licensing.
Critics argue that the initiative could undermine nonproliferation efforts, as it involves handling weapons-grade material. Supporters say it could reduce storage costs and provide a domestic fuel source for next-generation reactors.
As of May 2026, no specific startups have been named, and the proposal remains in early stages. The administration has not announced a timeline or budget for the initiative.
