President-elect Donald Trump recently hinted at his support for nuclear power during an appearance on Joe Rogan’s podcast, calling it “superior” to other energy sources and expressing enthusiasm for advancing small modular reactors.
His endorsement comes at a time of surging electricity needs driven by Big Tech’s AI advancements and the critical demand for dependable energy to propel America’s economic growth and regain U.S. energy self-sufficiency. Nearly half a century ago, President Richard Nixon envisioned a similar path, laying out plans for what the Atomic Energy Commission anticipated would be 1,000 nuclear reactors nationwide by the year 2000. Although Nixon’s initiative ultimately stumbled due to steep costs, construction delays, and his resignation, today’s renewed focus on nuclear energy begs the question: Is the nation ready to bring Nixon’s vision to fruition?
In the chronicles of U.S. energy policy, few initiatives shine as brightly as Nixon’s ambitious nuclear strategy. Announced amidst the 1973 oil crisis, his plan was both a response to an immediate challenge and a long-term solution for ensuring the country’s energy independence. One of the key advantages of nuclear power was its ability to diversify the nation’s energy resources, providing a safeguard against disruptions in any single sector. Nixon foresaw a future where America’s industries and households would be powered by atomic energy, reducing the risks tied to reliance on foreign oil.
The logic behind Nixon’s nuclear aspirations was sound. Nuclear reactors provide a steady and dependable energy supply, unlike renewable options such as solar and wind, which depend on fluctuating weather conditions. With advancements in technology, the safety and performance of nuclear facilities have improved dramatically, making them an even more appealing option for powering national energy grids.
Yet, several obstacles derailed Nixon’s plans. During the Cold War, rising concerns about nuclear proliferation—particularly with civilian nuclear programs potentially enabling weapon development in volatile regions—complicated nuclear energy expansion. These fears, combined with public unease fueled by environmental risks such as the Three Mile Island accident in 1979 and the Chernobyl disaster in 1986, eroded political and public support for nuclear projects. This growing skepticism led to the imposition of stringent regulations that became insurmountable barriers to nuclear development.
Despite these challenges, the necessity for a resilient and well-rounded energy system persists. Today, as the world navigates the dual issues of energy security and reliability, Nixon’s nuclear ambition offers critical insights. The global context has evolved, and the demand for stable, affordable energy solutions has never been more evident.
Innovations in nuclear technology, including small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced safety systems, address many of the concerns of the past. SMRs promise reduced capital requirements, enhanced safety measures, and flexible deployment options, making them suitable for diverse environments, from isolated regions to retrofitted existing plants. SMRs are becoming particularly appealing to corporations like Microsoft and Amazon, which seek to power their AI systems efficiently.
To make this vision a reality, a unified approach is necessary from policymakers and industry stakeholders. Simplifying regulatory frameworks, bolstering research and development, and fostering public confidence through clear communication and community partnerships are essential steps. Additionally, investing in advanced waste management solutions, such as deep geological storage and recycling technologies, will ensure sustainable development.
My team at the Texas Public Policy Foundation recently published research tackling these issues while outlining a roadmap for policymakers interested in revitalizing the nuclear energy sector. To accelerate adoption, we recommend that the U.S. military—given its substantial energy requirements and Texas presence—spearhead nuclear innovation by piloting microreactors within ERCOT. Texas could also simplify permitting by establishing centralized contacts, advocating for federal involvement, and prioritizing site selection supported by early collection of meteorological and seismic data.
While Nixon’s nuclear ambition may have been overly optimistic, the desire to harness nuclear power as a reliable and secure energy resource remains urgent. As we confront rising energy demands, adopting a diversified energy mix that includes nuclear is the key to sustaining our energy grid. By revisiting and modernizing Nixon’s vision with contemporary technology and hard-earned experience, we can forge a path toward a brighter and more energy-secure future.