Nuclear Energy in Tennessee
Nuclear energy is one of the most resilient, environmentally sustainable, and reliable energy sources on the grid today. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Tennessee already ranks in the top 10 states for total nuclear generation. Its two nuclear power plants (Watts Bar and Sequoyah) provided 42% of in-state electricity in 2024. In addition to these existing plants, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) has been selected for a $400 million U.S. Department of Energy award to advance the nation’s first small modular reactor at the Clinch River Site, positioning Tennessee at the forefront of new nuclear energy development.
Beyond power generation, Tennessee offers the most comprehensive nuclear ecosystem in the U.S. Anchored by Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the Y-12 National Security Complex, Tennessee has led U.S. nuclear innovation since the Manhattan Project and continues to drive advancements in AI, quantum computing, isotope production, and next-generation nuclear technologies. In fact, more than 230 nuclear lifecycle companies operate in the Oak Ridge–Knoxville corridor, supported by strong State partnerships, workforce training programs, and targeted supply chain investments that are creating high-quality jobs. Many partners across the state are working collaboratively to plan for Tennessee’s nuclear future. Explore the resources on this page for more information, and check back regularly for new nuclear announcements.
Many partners across the state are working collaboratively to expand Tennessee’s nuclear horizons. Explore the resources on this page for more information, and check back regularly for new nuclear announcements.
Why Nuclear?
TN2, operated by the East Tennessee Economic Council, explains why there is urgency behind nuclear power and fuel lifecycle development and why Tennessee is a strong host for this industry. Specifically, TN2 explores how rising electricity demand requires reliable power and how nuclear energy generation is a necessary resource for meeting that demand in the long-term while still ensuring affordable, secure electricity for Tennesseans.
In July 2026, DOE announced that it signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Tennessee for continued exploration of an NLIC in Oak Ridge. The State’s response to DOE's NLIC Request for Information outlines candidate sites, priority campus functions, and ongoing evaluation of interim and long-term storage opportunities while further demonstrating why Tennessee is uniquely positioned to lead such a Campus for the nation.
Office of Nuclear Energy
The Office of Nuclear Energy works to advance nuclear energy science and technology to meet the nation's energy, environmental, and economic needs. Its website hosts public education materials on a variety of nuclear topics, including advanced and commercial reactors, the nuclear fuel cycle, and ongoing nuclear partnerships and opportunities.
TNECD leads the State’s efforts related to nuclear industrial and community development across Tennessee. The TNECD website provides information regarding grants and other incentives based on a project’s impact to Tennessee, as well as certified site identification.