Secretary Wright Delivers Remarks Ahead of Transport of a Nuclear Reactor - February 15, 2026

Why It Matters

Accelerating domestic nuclear deployment strengthens U.S. energy security, creates high‑tech jobs, and positions America as a leader in next‑generation clean power.

Key Takeaways

• Trump pledged three critical nuclear reactors by July 4, 2026.
• DOE plans to transport a multi‑megawatt reactor to Utah.
• Executive orders aim to remove regulatory barriers to U.S. energy.
• Two reactors built in 40‑50 years, now targeting rapid expansion.
• Military and private sector collaborating on next‑gen nuclear deployment.

Summary

Secretary Jennifer Wright used the briefing to spotlight the Trump administration’s aggressive push for domestic nuclear power, announcing the imminent flight of a multi‑megawatt next‑generation reactor to Utah. The shipment, loaded onto a C‑17 aircraft, is slated to become fully critical by July 4, fulfilling President Trump’s promise to have three reactors operating by the nation’s 250th Independence Day anniversary.

Wright highlighted a suite of four executive orders that have stripped away longstanding regulatory and policy obstacles, accelerating enrichment, fuel‑fabrication, and licensing processes. She noted that only two reactors have been built in the past half‑century, yet the current schedule aims to add a third within months—a timeline she described as “history in the making.” The Department of Energy, in concert with the military and private entrepreneurs, is driving the effort.

“America can build, innovate, and do things here,” Wright quoted President Trump, underscoring the political narrative of energy sovereignty. She praised the collaboration between the Department of Energy, the armed forces, and industry partners, framing the Utah deployment as a tangible proof point of the administration’s energy‑dominance agenda.

If successful, the rapid deployment could reshape U.S. energy markets, reduce reliance on imported fuels, and bolster national security by integrating advanced nuclear capabilities into the domestic supply chain. The move also signals to global competitors that the United States is reviving its nuclear manufacturing base, potentially attracting investment and spurring a new wave of clean‑energy projects.