WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced a series of significant policy initiatives and updates last week, reflecting its commitment to advancing domestic energy innovation and relieving regulatory pressures. The department outlined plans to accelerate the deployment of small modular nuclear reactors, reduce regulations on home appliances, and streamline permitting processes for critical infrastructure projects.
$900 Million to Boost Small Modular Reactors
On Monday, March 24, DOE reissued a $900 million solicitation aimed at deploying small modular reactors (SMRs) as part of efforts to strengthen the U.S. energy portfolio. This initiative aligns with President Trump’s strategy to enhance American energy and artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities in the years ahead.
“America’s nuclear energy renaissance starts now,” stated Secretary of Energy Chris Wright. “Abundant and affordable energy is key to our nation’s economic prosperity and security. This solicitation is a call to action for early movers seeking to put more energy on the grid through the deployment of advanced light-water small modular reactors.”
As the nation’s electricity demand continues to grow, driven by AI advancements, industrial activity, and increased grid consumption, SMRs are seen as a potential resource to deliver reliable, scalable energy. The compact size and modular design of these reactors allow for tailored deployment in energy-intensive sectors, making them a versatile solution for future needs.
To facilitate this deployment, the DOE’s funding is separated into two tiers. The First Mover Team Support program allocates up to $800 million to support two teams comprising utilities, reactor vendors, constructors, and end-users aiming to pioneer SMR deployments. The Fast Follower Deployment Support program offers $100 million to address systemic challenges including licensing, site preparation, and supply chain resilience. Applications are due April 23, 2025, with funding decisions based solely on technical merit.
By leveraging existing infrastructure from the country’s fleet of light-water reactors, the DOE aims to reduce costs, expedite deployment, and maintain alignment with the administration’s nuclear energy goals.
Rollback of Appliance Efficiency Mandates
Also on March 24, Secretary Wright announced the postponement of three Biden-era regulations targeting home appliance efficiency. This move, guided by President Trump’s Executive Order, “Unleashing Prosperity through Deregulation,” seeks to lower costs, enhance appliance performance, and expand consumer choice.
The postponed mandates include efficiency and test procedures for central air conditioners, heat pumps, gas water heaters, and walk-in coolers. Additionally, four conservation standards, covering products like electric motors, ceiling fans, dehumidifiers, and external power supplies, have been officially rescinded.
“Under President Trump’s leadership, the Department of Energy is taking critical steps every day to help American families prosper,” Wright said. “By removing burdensome regulations put in place by the Biden administration, we are returning freedom of choice to the American people, ensuring consumers can choose the home appliances that work best for their lives and budgets.”
The DOE underlined that reducing regulatory oversight aligns with broader efforts to improve accessibility, affordability, and efficiency in consumer markets while promoting domestic manufacturing.
Accelerating National Lab Infrastructure Upgrades
On Thursday, March 27, Secretary Wright announced reforms easing regulatory requirements for infrastructure projects at the nation’s 17 National Laboratories. These changes aim to modernize aging laboratory facilities, many of which date back to World War II, enabling faster execution of scientific and technological priorities while reducing taxpayer expenses.
“With President Trump’s leadership, we have a unique opportunity to advance energy abundance, lead the world in scientific and technological innovation, and modernize our weapons stockpiles,” Wright said. “Unfortunately, over the years, burdensome regulations delayed the important work being done at our National Labs.”
The initiative involves updating permitting rules to expedite critical infrastructure developments at these laboratories, laying the foundation for accelerated research in energy science and advancements in nuclear technology. According to DOE projections, the reforms could save hundreds of millions of dollars in project costs over the next decade.
A Broader Energy Vision
Each of these policies underscores the administration’s vision for energy abundance, economic competitiveness, and technological leadership. From supporting advanced nuclear technologies to ensuring consumer-friendly policies, DOE’s actions prioritize national security, economic resilience, and affordability for American households.
Energy Secretary Wright called these efforts “a pivotal moment” for the United States to strengthen its energy infrastructure while cementing its position as a global leader in energy production and innovation. “We are ensuring the United States remains at the forefront of energy science and technology for generations to come,” he concluded.
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