Nuclear Power Gets a New Look in Louisiana

The state of Louisiana is stepping into the spotlight as it tries to become a key player in the next wave of nuclear energy. A recent summit hosted by Louisiana Economic Development gathered more than two hundred people from industry, government and finance to talk about how the state can grow this sector.

Applied Atomics: A SpaceX‑Inspired Approach

Applied Atomics, a company founded by former SpaceX engineer Ben Kellie, is one of the companies seeking investment. The firm wants to build a training center in New Orleans that will use a small, non‑nuclear simulator to teach workers how to run modern reactors. Kellie says his approach is similar to SpaceX’s: take existing technology and update it with new software so the plants are cheaper and safer.

Governor Jeff Landry’s Vision

Governor Jeff Landry announced a plan in Houston that would turn Louisiana into a hub for building the modular parts of new reactors and for expanding existing plants like Waterford 3 and Riverbend. The summit is the first step in turning that vision into a concrete strategy, according to LED Secretary Susan Bourgeois.

Industry Leadership and Collaboration

Industry leaders from big names such as Dow, Meta and Nippon Steel were present, along with executives from utilities like Entergy Louisiana. They discussed everything from building small modular reactors on offshore platforms to turning nuclear waste into usable fuel in a $7 billion facility.

Federal Support

The federal government has also backed the move. President Trump’s administration had already invested heavily in nuclear and pushed for faster approvals, while Presidents Obama and Biden have continued that support with new laws allocating billions for nuclear growth.

Addressing Critics

Critics of nuclear energy point out that it is not as clean as wind or solar and that radioactive waste remains a risk. However, experts argue that the latest small modular designs are safer than older plants because they rely on passive safety systems. Even existing plants like Waterford and Riverbend have strong safety records, according to University of Wisconsin professor Michael Corradini.

The Cost Challenge

The biggest hurdle for nuclear expansion is cost. New reactors are expensive and often run behind schedule. Applied Atomics, despite eight years of development, has yet to secure a client deal—something common in the industry. The company needs partners who need green power and investors willing to fund construction.

Turner Industries’ Role

Turner Industries’ CEO Stephen Toups sees Louisiana’s role as a supplier of modular components that can be shipped and assembled on site. “We are building the pipes, modules and subassemblies that will go into all the reactors,” he said. If Louisiana can deliver on this promise, it could become a major supplier in the emerging nuclear supply chain.