The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and its energy partners must reapply for $800 million in federal funding for the Oak Ridge reactor project after the Department of Energy removed community engagement and equity requirements from the application process.
The TVA originally applied in January for the funds to build up to four 300-megawatt reactors in Oak Ridge, aiming for commercial operation by 2033.
The reapplication process began after the Trump administration removed a clause—weighted 20%—emphasizing community engagement and a Biden-era diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) mandate.
A Department of Energy official said the new merit-based process aims to accelerate nuclear technology development.
