Oklo, a nuclear energy company, announced this week that it will make almost a $2 billion investment in Tennessee.
The company will be located at the Oak Ridge Heritage Center. This site will be 247 acres and will recycle used nuclear fuel. This facility will mark America’s first privately funded nuclear recycling-capable facility.
With this investment, the company will create over 800 jobs.
According to a state government press release, Oklo is the fifth company to come to Tennessee utilizing the state’s Nuclear Energy Fund, which helps nuclear power-related businesses relocate or grow in the Volunteer State. This fund also helps universities and research institutions develop their nuclear education programs.
Jacob DeWitte, Oklo’s CEO, said the company’s 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,” DeWitte stated.
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee said the state is “well-positioned to lead America’s energy independence.”
“We’re proud to partner with Oklo to innovate for the future, while bringing continued opportunity and prosperity to Tennessee families,” he explained.
State Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Stuart McWhorter said Tennessee is the “ideal location for this project.”
“We look forward to seeing the incredible impact this project has, and we’re grateful to welcome Oklo to the Tennessee family,” he explained.
Don Moul, the Tennessee Valley Authority CEO, said Tennessee is at the “core of America’s nuclear renaissance.”
“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,” Moul noted.
Last week, the Tennessee Valley Authority announced a nuclear power expansion that will be able to power around 4.5 million American homes or 60 new data centers.
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Zachery Schmidt is the digital editor of The Star News Network. Email tips to Zachery at [email protected].
Photo “Oklo Inc. Announcement” by Oklo Inc.
More giveaway of our hard-earned tax dollars. I will say it again – If Tennessee is such a great place for business, then why does the state bribe companies to move here or expand existing operations?