The White House has launched a new federal initiative, known as the Utility Power Reactor Incremental Scaling Effort (UPRISE), aimed at expanding U.S. nuclear capacity by approximately 5 gigawatts. Lightbridge Corporation took part in the launch, highlighting its advanced fuel technology that could help existing reactors boost production and support national energy objectives.
Subscribe
Green Energy Solutions
Policy Analysis
Lightbridge Participates in Launch of UPRISE Nuclear Power Uprate Event at the White House
Photo by Benzinga
Key Takeaways:
- UPRISE is a federal program to add roughly 5 gigawatts of capacity to America’s existing nuclear plants.
- The U.S. Department of Energy spearheads the initiative, following a May 2025 executive order.
- Lightbridge Corporation participated in the launch, demonstrating its fuel design for pressurized water reactors.
- Lightbridge Fuel aims to deliver one of the largest power uprates in the industry.
- CEO Seth Grae emphasizes the cost-effectiveness of upgrading existing reactors for immediate production gains.
White House Launch of UPRISE
UPRISE, short for the Utility Power Reactor Incremental Scaling Effort, was introduced at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building within the White House grounds. Spearheaded by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), this initiative is in direct response to President Biden’s May 2025 executive orders, which mandated the facilitation of 5 gigawatts of new nuclear power by optimizing the capabilities of existing reactors.
Lightbridge Corporation’s Role
Lightbridge Corporation, represented by its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Seth Grae, attended the launch and showcased the potential of its Lightbridge Fuel technology. Billed as offering some of the largest power uprates available for the country’s pressurized water reactor fleet, Lightbridge Fuel stands at the forefront of the UPRISE program. The company continues testing and qualification processes to prepare for commercial deployment.
Remarks from Leadership
“UPRISE recognizes a straightforward reality: the fastest and most cost-effective megawatts we can add to the grid are the ones we draw from reactors already operating today,” said Seth Grae, underlining the importance of enhancing existing nuclear infrastructure quickly and economically.
Implications for U.S. Energy Sector
With the push to add 5 gigawatts of nuclear power, the nation stands to benefit from a more robust and reliable energy mix. By focusing on reactors already in operation, the UPRISE program offers a rapid route toward meeting growing energy demand without the time and expense required to develop entirely new plants. Lightbridge Fuel’s high power uprate potential could be a key factor in the program’s ability to achieve its objectives.
