Tennessee Submits Proposal for Nuclear Lifestyle Innovation Campus in Oak Ridge

Governor Bill Lee says the plan would strengthen Tennessee's role in securing America's energy dominance.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 2:34pm

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Tennessee has submitted a proposal to the Department of Energy to host a new Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus in Oak Ridge. Governor Bill Lee says the plan would further strengthen the state's position as a leader in nuclear energy development and secure America's energy future.

Why it matters

The proposed Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus is part of a new DOE effort to modernize the nation's full nuclear fuel cycle and bolster U.S. leadership in advanced nuclear energy. Tennessee's proposal highlights the state's existing nuclear ecosystem and infrastructure, positioning Oak Ridge as the "nation's nuclear epicenter" and a prime location to host this new federal initiative.

The details

Tennessee's proposal cites the state's $400 million in DOE funding to advance the first small modular reactor at the Clinch River Site, as well as significant private-sector investment, a robust industry and workforce pipeline, a proven regulatory environment, and strong legislative support as reasons why Oak Ridge is "uniquely positioned to lead a Nuclear Lifestyle Innovation Campus."

  • Tennessee submitted the proposal to the Department of Energy in April 2026.

The players

Bill Lee

The Governor of Tennessee who announced the state's proposal for the Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus in Oak Ridge.

U.S. Department of Energy

The federal agency that has asked states to express interest in hosting new Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campuses as part of an effort to modernize the nation's nuclear fuel cycle.

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What they’re saying

“Tennessee's innovation has positioned the Volunteer State as the global epicenter of nuclear energy. As our state answered the call during the Manhattan Project and helped shape the course of history, Tennessee stands ready once again to lead in advancing safe, reliable energy solutions our Nation depends on.”

— Bill Lee, Governor of Tennessee

What’s next

The Department of Energy will review Tennessee's proposal and other state submissions to determine the location for the new Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus.

The takeaway

Tennessee's bid to host the Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus in Oak Ridge builds on the state's long history of leadership in nuclear energy development, positioning it as a prime location to advance the next generation of safe, reliable nuclear power solutions for the nation.