Construction Schedule Set for New Paducah Laser Enrichment Center, Greenlighted by US Nuclear Regulatory Body
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Greenlights Paducah Laser Enrichment Facility
In a significant development for the nuclear energy sector, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has completed its acceptance review of Global Laser Enrichment's (GLE) license application for the Paducah Laser Enrichment Facility (PLEF). This marks a major step forward in GLE's mission to deploy new U.S. based depleted uranium tails re-enrichment and low enriched uranium production capacity.
Timothy Knowles, the Licensing & Regulatory Affairs Manager at Global Laser Enrichment (GLE), expressed appreciation for the NRC's timely acceptance review of the PLEF's license application. GLE anticipates continued engagement with the NRC to achieve a streamlined and efficient licensing schedule.
The PLEF is expected to contribute significantly to rebuilding and strengthening the domestic supply chain for uranium, conversion, and enrichment services. By re-enriching depleted uranium tails, GLE aims to reduce dependence on foreign fuel sources from state-owned entities. This is estimated to save the U.S. about $500 million annually while providing approximately 140 local jobs.
The resumption of uranium enrichment operations at the Paducah site, now under the development of General Matter, is planned for 2034, with construction of the new facility expected to begin in 2026. This new enrichment plant will reutilize the former Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant’s infrastructure and workforce, facilitating private investment and accelerated licensing.
Governor Andy Beshear of Kentucky noted that the re-opening of the Paducah facility would be the largest economic investment ever for western Kentucky. He also highlighted Kentucky's leadership in nuclear energy and strong partnerships at the federal and local levels, as well as in the private sector.
The Paducah site is part of a broader DOE strategy to transform former uranium enrichment facilities into hubs for advanced energy and AI infrastructure, demonstrating a commitment to national energy security, innovation, and supply chain resilience. Workforce development efforts in Paducah, supported by state legislature funding, are also preparing skilled labor to support these advanced nuclear and enrichment operations.
Governor Beshear expressed anticipation for returning to Paducah to celebrate the next key milestone for this exciting and historic project. The NRC has established a timeline for when the Paducah Laser Enrichment Facility (PLEF) will resume operations, and GLE remains hopeful for a timely review, in line with President Trump's Executive Order, Ordering the Reform of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, dated May 23, 2025.
In summary, the construction start for the Paducah Laser Enrichment Facility is set for 2026, with operations starting in 2034. The economic impact includes $500 million annual savings on enriched uranium imports and 140 local jobs. The facility's contribution to the supply chain includes reducing foreign dependence, utilising domestic uranium resources, and transforming legacy waste into feedstock. The project is part of a broader DOE strategy for strategic infrastructure enhancement for energy and AI, with community workforce investments underway.
