Energy Directives
Deploying Advanced Nuclear Reactor Technologies for National Security
This executive order establishes a comprehensive policy to accelerate the development, deployment, and export of advanced nuclear reactor technologies for national security purposes.
It directs several federal agencies to implement specific programs, including deploying nuclear reactors at military bases and Department of Energy facilities, allocating resources for related research and development, and aggressively promoting American nuclear exports through diplomatic and financial initiatives.
The order also emphasizes compliance with environmental regulations and seeks to streamline permits and approvals.
Ordering the Reform of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission
President Trump's executive order directs the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to undergo significant restructuring and regulatory reform.
The order aims to accelerate the licensing and deployment of new nuclear reactors, expand US nuclear energy capacity, and re-establish American global leadership in nuclear energy.
Key components involve revising outdated safety models, streamlining licensing processes with fixed deadlines, and reorganizing the NRC to promote efficiency.
The stated goal is to improve energy independence, stimulate economic growth and create high-paying jobs while maintaining a high standard of nuclear safety.
Reforming Nuclear Reactor Testing at the Department of Energy
President Trump issued an executive order to significantly accelerate advanced nuclear reactor development and deployment in the United States.
The order streamlines the Department of Energy's processes for reviewing and approving reactor projects, reformulates existing environmental review processes according to NEPA guidelines, and launches a pilot program to build reactors outside of national laboratories.
The goal is to have at least three reactors operational by July 4, 2026, leveraging decades of research to generate a reliable, diversified, and affordable energy supply and strengthen national security.
Reinvigorating the Nuclear Industrial Base
President Trump's executive order prioritizes the revitalization of the American nuclear energy industry.
The order mandates multiple actions by federal agencies, including developing a national policy for spent nuclear fuel management, expanding domestic uranium production and enrichment, utilizing the Defense Production Act to secure voluntary agreements with domestic nuclear energy companies, and funding the expansion of nuclear energy related workforce development.
The overarching goal is to achieve energy independence, strengthen national security, and establish American energy dominance.
Rescission of Useless Water Pressure Standards
President Trump issued a memorandum directing the Secretary of Energy to rescind or amend regulations on water and energy use for various appliances, arguing they make appliances more expensive and less functional.
The memorandum also directs the Secretary to publish a notice clarifying a waiver of federal preemption of state regulations and instructs the preparation of recommendations for Congressional action to rescind relevant sections of law or the Energy Policy Act of 1992 entirely.
The president's directive is justified on the grounds of minimizing unnecessary regulatory burdens on taxpayers.
Unleashing America’s Offshore Critical Minerals and Resources
This executive order establishes a US policy to accelerate responsible development of seabed mineral resources, citing national security and economic interests in securing critical minerals independent of foreign adversaries.
The order directs several federal agencies to streamline permitting processes, increase investment in deep-sea technologies, and engage in international partnerships to develop domestic supply chains and counter China's influence in the sector.
It also mandates reporting on various aspects of seabed mineral resource development, including assessments of environmental impacts, economic feasibility, and international cooperation.
Ensuring National Security and Economic Resilience Through Section 232 Actions on Processed Critical Minerals and Derivative Products
President Trump's order initiates a Section 232 investigation into the national security risks posed by the United States' reliance on foreign sources for processed critical minerals and their derivative products.
The investigation will assess supply chain vulnerabilities, market distortions caused by foreign producers, and the impact on the domestic manufacturing and defense industrial bases.
Recommendations may include tariffs, import restrictions, and measures to incentivize domestic production to bolster national security and economic resilience.
Ensuring National Security and Economic Resilience Through Section 232 Actions on Processed Critical Minerals and Derivative Products
President Trump issued an executive order initiating a Section 232 investigation into the national security implications of US dependence on foreign sources for processed critical minerals and their derivative products.
The order emphasizes the importance of these materials for both national defense and economic security, citing vulnerabilities in global supply chains and the potential for market manipulation by foreign producers.
The investigation will assess the impact of imports on national security and recommend actions, including the possibility of tariffs and other import restrictions, to mitigate risks and strengthen domestic production.