Panelists talk domestic enrichment expansion at Global 2026

[Marlin]

Panelists talk domestic enrichment expansion at Global 2026

https://www.ans.org/news/2026-08-21/article-8323/panelists-talk-domestic-enrichment-expansion-at-global-2026/

[Core Content]

Representatives from Urenco USA, Centrus Energy, General Matter, and Global Laser Enrichment detailed plans to expand domestic uranium enrichment capacity during the Global 2026 conference. Urenco is increasing capacity at its New Mexico facility, while other firms are advancing projects in Ohio and Kentucky. These efforts aim to bolster the domestic fuel supply chain.

The industry is currently working to reduce reliance on foreign, state-owned enrichment services as demand for nuclear power grows. Expanding domestic production is intended to support both existing reactor fleets and emerging advanced reactor designs. These projects represent a shift toward reestablishing U.S. enrichment capabilities, though companies face ongoing challenges regarding workforce recruitment, retention, and the uncertainty of future fuel demand for new reactor technologies.

What fuels the future of nuclear? Whether it is low-enriched uranium, LEU+, or high-assay low-enriched uranium, one of the answers is in the question itself: fuel.

Earlier this week, the American Nuclear Society's Fuel Cycle & Waste Management Division hosted Global 2026, with the theme of "Deploying Sustainable Nuclear Fuel Cycles."

During one plenary session, "Fueling the Future of Nuclear," panelists from Urenco USA, Centrus Energy, General Matter, and Global Laser Enrichment shared with attendees how the companies were contributing to the front end of the fuel cycle—more specifically, by launching or expanding their respective enrichment services.

Read the full article at ans.org:
https://www.ans.org/news/2026-08-21/article-8323/panelists-talk-domestic-enrichment-expansion-at-global-2026/