Request for Application: Initiative to Bolster Used Nuclear Fuel Recycling

The Department of Energy National Nuclear Security Administration has issued a Special Notice in the form of a Request for Application titled "Initiative to Bolster Used Nuclear Fuel Recycling." Published on April 22, 2026, this opportunity aims to support and enable privately funded nuclear fuel recycling technologies through a collaborative approach between the federal government and private sector entities. The Special Notice is issued pursuant to Section 5(c) of Executive Order 14299, establishing a formal mechanism for interested parties to submit applications. No set-asides have been designated for this opportunity, meaning it is open to all eligible applicants without restrictions to specific business categories or demographics. The application deadline for this initiative is June 19, 2026, providing applicants with approximately two months to prepare and submit their proposals.

The underlying purpose of this initiative is to leverage DOE resources and expertise to advance privately funded nuclear fuel recycling technologies that align with Department of Energy missions. Applicants can potentially access substantial support including DOE sites and facilities for testing and prototype deployment, actual used nuclear fuel for prototype testing and recycling purposes, authorization for research activities and prototype testing, and technical expertise available through DOE national laboratories. While the Special Notice does not explicitly detail specific eligibility criteria, the focus on "privately funded" technologies suggests the initiative seeks participation from private sector organizations capable of developing commercial nuclear fuel recycling solutions. Interested contractors should prepare comprehensive applications that clearly articulate how DOE resources would enable their technology development, along with details regarding their technical capabilities and commercialization plans. Organizations are encouraged to identify which specific DOE resources and support would be most critical to advancing their recycling technology through the prototype and testing phases.