Reactor criticality, states’ new nuclear plans among NECX 2026 highlights

[Marlin]

Reactor criticality, states' new nuclear plans among NECX 2026 highlights

https://www.ans.org/news/2026-08-26/article-8342/reactor-criticality-states-new-nuclear-plans-among-necx-2026-highlights/

[Core Content]

Representatives from Aalo Atomics, Antares Nuclear, and Deployable Energy discussed achieving reactor criticality ahead of the July 4, 2026, deadline set by Executive Order 14301. The plenary session at NECX 2026 highlighted how these firms accelerated development timelines through supply chain coordination and prioritized project execution to meet federal goals.

These milestones signal a shift in industry and government collaboration toward rapid deployment of advanced reactor designs. While achieving criticality marks a technical success, the industry now faces the challenge of scaling these projects into reliable, commercial operations. Simultaneously, officials from Kentucky, New York, and Utah are developing state-level policies and funding mechanisms to support future nuclear infrastructure.

The second day of the Nuclear Energy Conference & Expo (NECX 2026) kicked off with success stories on the start-up and state levels.

In Wednesday's opening plenary session, representatives of three of the four companies that reached criticality on or before Executive Order 14301's July 4 target date—Aalo Atomics, Antares Nuclear, and Deployable Energy—talked about the run-up to meeting the deadline. Following the opener, officials from Kentucky, New York, and Utah discussed ambitious plans to expand nuclear power in their respective states.

Read the full article at ans.org:
https://www.ans.org/news/2026-08-26/article-8342/reactor-criticality-states-new-nuclear-plans-among-necx-2026-highlights/