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Area Development - Site Selection, Facility Planning and Workforce Development

Oklo Plans Oak Ridge, Tennessee, Nuclear Fuel Recycling Operations

09/08/2025
Advanced nuclear technology company Oklo Inc. plans to establish operations in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. The $1.7 billion project is expected to create 800 jobs.

The investment will include the construction of an advanced nuclear fuel recycling facility, located on 247 acres at the Oak Ridge Heritage Center, that will be the U.S.’s first privately funded nuclear recycling capability and provide a durable, domestic fuel supply for advanced reactors.

“We’re proud to make this commitment in Tennessee, where our investment will create hundreds of skilled jobs and establish a world-class nuclear fuel center. By recycling used fuel, we’re building the supply chain for the next generation of nuclear technology with advanced fuels that power industry and support durable jobs for decades to come,” said Jacob DeWitte, co-founder and CEO, Oklo.

The project is being supported by Tennessee’s Nuclear Energy Fund, which assists nuclear power-related businesses choosing to relocate or grow in the state and supports its universities and research institutions in further developing their nuclear education programs. The Oklo project was vetted and recommended by the Education and Workforce subgroup, part of the 22-member Tennessee Nuclear Energy Advisory Council.

“Today’s announcement marks another significant milestone for our state in becoming a leader for clean and reliable energy. With assets like Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a rich history in the nuclear industry and leadership that stands ready to support Oklo’s next steps, we know Tennessee is the ideal location for this project and the company’s continued nuclear efforts. We look forward to seeing the incredible impact this project has, and we’re grateful to welcome Oklo to the Tennessee family,” noted TNECD Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter.

Oklo Inc. designs and aims to operate small, liquid-metal-cooled fast reactors to provide clean, reliable, and affordable energy by recycling spent nuclear fuel. The company’s business model involves owning and operating the power plants, selling electricity through power purchase agreements (PPAs), and targeting industrial sites, college campuses, and data centers for its micro-reactors.

“Tennessee is the core of America’s nuclear renaissance. Under Governor Lee’s leadership, the state is leading the way in attracting the companies that will build America’s energy future. Oklo’s announcement will ensure these innovative nuclear technologies are built and developed in our backyard. TVA is proud to support Oklo’s work to develop the next-generation of nuclear technologies needed to power AI-infrastructure and drive economic growth,” added Don Moul, president and CEO of Tennessee Valley Authority.

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