- Three startups in a DOE pilot program have achieved criticality, marking a milestone for the 'nuclear renaissance' aimed at next-gen atomic energy.
- The program, spurred by a Trump executive order with a July 4, 2026 deadline, cuts regulations to accelerate development, though experts note reactors are still in testing phases, not commercial.
- Small reactor designs benefit from regulatory easing and national lab support, but face hurdles like licensing, fuel supply chains, and high costs before commercialization.