Billions Are Flowing into the US Nuclear Sector, but How Long Until Returns Are Realized?

The US nuclear industry is experiencing a renaissance, fueled by massive investments and a surge in demand from energy-hungry AI data centers. According to recent reports, around $80 billion is pouring into new nuclear projects, with tech giants like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft betting big on advanced reactors to power their AI ambitions. However, as highlighted in Bloomberg’s analysis, this “nuclear bet” won’t deliver meaningful power to the AI boom for at least a decade, raising questions about timelines, risks, and investor patience.

In this article, we’ll explore government initiatives driving the sector, profile the top nuclear companies advancing new technologies, assess their progress and grid-connection timelines, and discuss what investors should watch for—while addressing the elephant in the room: Could the AI hype lead to a bust?

Government Initiatives: DOE and Trump Administration Push for Nuclear Revival

The US Department of Energy (DOE) has been at the forefront of revitalizing nuclear energy, particularly through programs aimed at accelerating advanced reactor development. Key initiatives include:

Reactor Pilot Program: Launched in response to executive actions, this program selected 11 companies in August 2025 to fast-track testing, licensing, and commercialization of advanced reactors. Participants include Oklo, Kairos Power, TerraPower, and X-energy, with the goal of deploying three full-scale pilots.

Advanced Nuclear Fuel Pilot Projects: In September 2025, DOE selected four firms, including Oklo and Terrestrial Energy, to develop fuel supply chains for next-gen reactors.

Loan Programs Office Focus: Energy Secretary announcements in 2025 emphasized financing for nuclear plants, with billions allocated to support deployment in critical areas like data centers and industrial sites.

Army Janus Program: Unveiled in October 2025, this initiative supports next-generation nuclear for military and civilian applications, including uranium fuel cycles.

The Trump administration has amplified these efforts with aggressive executive orders. Starting in January 2025 with the “Unleashing American Energy” directive, the administration aims to quadruple US nuclear capacity from about 100 GW to 400 GW by 2050.

Key actions include reforming reactor testing (May 2025 EO), redirecting plutonium stockpiles for civilian use to power AI, and backing $80 billion in new plant deals.

These policies emphasize small modular reactors (SMRs) and microreactors for quicker deployment, targeting AI-driven energy needs while addressing radioactive waste challenges.

Top Nuclear Companies: Progress and Timelines to Grid or Behind-the-Meter Solutions

The sector’s growth centers on advanced SMRs and microreactors, designed for factory assembly, scalability, and off-grid (“behind-the-meter”) applications like data centers. Here’s a look at 10 leading companies, their key projects, progress as of November 2025, and estimated timelines to grid connection or operational behind-the-meter power. Timelines are based on company announcements, regulatory milestones, and industry reports, but delays due to supply chains, licensing, and costs are common.