Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus

Governor Bill Lee announced that the State of Tennessee has submitted a comprehensive proposal to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) positioning Oak Ridge as the premier site for a Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus. The project would further strengthen Tennessee’s role in securing America’s energy dominance by supporting DOE’s vision for full-cycle nuclear energy ecosystems that bolster the nuclear value chain by advancing safe, durable, and fiscally responsible solutions.

“Tennessee’s innovation has positioned the Volunteer State as the global epicenter of nuclear energy,” said Gov. Lee. “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. I’m grateful for DOE’s consideration of our proposal and look forward to continued partnership with the Trump Administration to secure America’s energy dominance, strengthen national security, and deliver long-term economic opportunity for Tennesseans.”

The State’s comprehensive response 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 a Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus.