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Area Development - Site Selection, Facility Planning and Workforce Development

Global Laser Enrichment Plans McCracken County, Kentucky, Operations

04/08/2026
Nuclear technology company Global Laser Enrichment plans to establish operations in Paducah, Kentucky. The $1.76 billion project is expected to create 240 jobs in McCracken County.

The investment will include the construction of a new facility, located on a 665-acre site adjacent to the U.S. Department of Energy’s former Gaseous Diffusion Plant, which will focus on re-enriching depleted uranium to support nuclear fuel production and site cleanup efforts.

“GLE greatly appreciates the Commonwealth of Kentucky’s enthusiasm and support for nuclear energy and especially, the creation of new U.S. domestic nuclear fuel sources,” said Stephen Long, CEO of Global Laser Enrichment. “The incentive package reflects a shared vision for economic development, technological leadership and the establishment of a resilient domestic nuclear fuel supply chain. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with state and local partners as we advance the project.”

To support the project, the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority preliminarily approved a 15-year incentive agreement under the Kentucky Business Investment program that can provide up to $24 million in tax incentives based on job creation and investment targets. The authority also approved up to $3 million in tax incentives through the Kentucky Enterprise Initiative Act, which allows companies to recoup sales and use taxes on eligible project costs.

“This is a game-changing investment for Western Kentucky and our entire commonwealth, and I am excited to see this project and the 240 great jobs come to life for families in Paducah and the surrounding region,” noted Governor Andy Beshear. “This project solidifies our role as a leader in the country’s nuclear power sector and will transform our economy, creating opportunities for Kentucky families for generations.”

By meeting its annual targets over the agreement term, the company can be eligible to keep a portion of the new tax revenue it generates. The company may claim eligible incentives against its income tax liability and/or wage assessments. In addition, GLE can receive resources from Kentucky’s workforce service providers. Those include no-cost recruitment and job placement services, reduced-cost customized training and job-training incentives.

“Today’s announcement represents a significant step forward for Paducah, the Commonwealth of Kentucky and our nation,” added Bruce Wilcox, President and CEO of Greater Paducah Economic Development. “This project not only honors our region’s history in energy production but also secures our future as a leader in next-generation nuclear technology.”

Global Laser Enrichment develops advanced uranium enrichment technology to support nuclear fuel production. The company is working to commercialize next-generation enrichment capabilities to strengthen domestic energy supply and reduce reliance on foreign sources.

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