Washington, D.C. -“ In an attempt to change America’s energy policy Former president Donald Trump has signed an executive order designed to revive this U.S. nuclear energy sector and speeding up the approval process for nuclear facilities that are being built.

The announcement was made during a summit on policy in Texas The executive orders will cut the red tape, increase the involvement of the private sector, and increase the importance that nuclear energy plays in the long-term strategy to achieve energy independence.

Accelerating Nuclear Permits: “Clean, Reliable Energy”

The order directs the federal government agencies to simplify licensing processes to permit SMRs that are small in size (SMRs) and large-scale plants as well. Trump highlighted the necessity of “clean, reliable, and American-made energy,” noting that nuclear power can help decrease dependence on foreign oil and create high-paying jobs.

 “We are done waiting,” Trump declared. “We have the technology, we have the talent, and now we have the leadership to power America through nuclear.”

 External source: World Nuclear News The U.S. seeks to fast-track nuclear permits

Industry Applauds Move, Critics Cite Safety & Oversight Concerns

Nuclear industry leaders welcomed this decision and pointed out the deterioration of energy grids and increasing global demand as evidence that nuclear energy must be as a part to the overall solution.

Environmental groups have expressed concern, citing possible safety concerns and the long-term environmental concerns that arise when approvals are given in a hurry.

 “Speed should never override safety,” said Claire Hanson of the Environmental Defense Network. “We’ve seen what happens when oversight is weakened.”

 External Sources: Union of Concerned Scientists Nuclear oversight and safety

Global Implications and Strategic Relevance

Trump’s policy is also positioned to allow America to position the U.S. to compete more effectively against China in addition to Russia both of which have massively committed to exporting nuclear technology.

As part of the order as part of the orders, an entirely newly-formed Nuclear Export Council will be established to assist American firms secure international contracts and help promote safe nuclear designs.