Trump administration wants nuclear startups to use plutonium for their reactors

The U.S. government has dozens of tons of weapons-grade plutonium and wants nuclear startups to explore using it as reactor fuel. The push aims to turn a costly disposal problem into a potential resource for advanced nuclear projects.

If viable, using surplus plutonium could help reduce nuclear waste liabilities while supporting next-generation reactor development. The plan also raises proliferation, safety, and regulatory concerns that could shape how quickly nuclear startups can commercialize new designs.

The U.S. government is sitting on dozens of tons of weapons-grade plutonium. It's hoping startups can find a use for it.