Overview
- The Department of Energy published an application on Tuesday that allows nuclear companies to request access to surplus weapons‑grade plutonium for use as reactor fuel, according to Financial Times.
- Reports indicate the program envisions making on the order of 19–20 tonnes available from decommissioned warheads, aligning with figures previously reported by Reuters.
- Oklo Inc. and Newcleo are identified in reporting as likely early applicants to use the material in advanced reactor designs.
- Coverage frames the move as part of a broader effort to lessen U.S. exposure to Russian‑linked uranium supply chains.
- A prior U.S. attempt to convert weapons plutonium for civilian use was canceled in 2018 after costs surged, underscoring the economic and technical hurdles that could challenge this proposal.