Small nuclear reactors could be operational by 2030, regulator says in first interview 

Published June 9, 2026 6:00am ET



The chief federal regulator in charge of licensing new facilities said the United States could see advanced reactors deployed and generating power by 2030, adding to the nuclear energy revival.

Nuclear Regulatory Commission Chairman Ho K. Nieh shared his optimism for advanced nuclear energy development during an exclusive interview with the Washington Examiner on Monday.

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