U.S. nuclear energy partnerships extend far beyond commercial transactions. They represent enduring, strategic relationships built on mutual trust, long-term collaboration, and a shared commitment to safety, innovation, and energy security. It includes fostering collaboration with regulatory bodies, research institutions, and educational entities. These collaborations underscore the comprehensive approach the U.S. nuclear energy industry takes in supporting its partners. U.S. commercial partnership brings shared regulatory guidance, cutting-edge research, and educational excellence to U.S. nuclear energy partners. This approach promotes not just successful deployment of nuclear energy projects but also the development of robust domestic industries that can sustain and expand nuclear capacity for decades to come. For nations seeking to establish or expand their nuclear capabilities, cooperation with the United States – including the NRC, national labs, and universities – represents an investment in both immediate and long-term success.
- The 100-Year Relationship
For more than 70 years, the United States has helped countries build nuclear energy programs that are safe, sovereign, and sustainable. These partnerships are rooted in shared values and reinforced through decades of collaboration in technology, regulation, education, and supply chains.
- Japan:U.S.-Japan cooperation on nuclear energy began in the 1950s and has evolved into one of the most advanced civil nuclear partnerships in the world. The U.S. supported Japan’s early program with technicalexpertise, regulatory consultation, and supply chain integration. Today, Japanoperatesa mature fleet of nuclear reactors and collaborates with the U.S. on advanced reactor R&D, fuel cycle innovation, and global nonproliferation leadership.
- South Korea:Starting in the 1970s, the U.S. played a pivotal role in helping South Koreaestablishits nuclear energy infrastructure. This included direct engagement on regulatory development, training of engineers and regulators, and integration of U.S. suppliers and technology. Over decades, South Korea has grown into a global nuclear energy exporter, with a robust domestic industry that continues to collaborate deeply with the United States on reactor innovation and safety.
These long-term engagements demonstrate the U.S. commitment to building self-reliant nuclear capabilities in partner countries—enabling not just project execution but industrial transformation, scientific progress, and strategic independence over generations.
- State-of-the-ArtResearch & Development
U.S. national laboratories, such as Oak Ridge, Argonne, and Idaho National Labs, are world-renowned for their role in advancing nuclear science and technology. These labs support partners with:
- Access tocutting-edgeR&D in areas like advanced reactors, fuel design, and wastemanagement;
- Knowledge transfer that enhances domestic capabilities and supports the deployment of advancedtechnologies;
- Testing andvalidatingemerging nuclear technologies, ensuring that international projectsbenefitfrom proven, reliable solutions.
By working with these labs, partner countries can co-develop solutions tailored to their unique energy goals, while participating in next-generation nuclear advancements.
- Highly Trained and Skilled Workforce:
The United States is home to leading universities – including MIT, Texas A&M, University of Michigan, and others – with robust nuclear engineering and research programs. These institutions provide unparalleled opportunities for workforce development, training a new generation of nuclear professionals equipped with the skills needed to operate and maintain advanced reactor technologies.
- International studentsbenefitfrom top-tier exchange programs and internships, creatinga pipeline ofexpertisethat strengthens bilateral ties and ensures sustainable development of nuclear energy programs.
- Partner governments and utilities gain access to academic collaboration and custom training programs.
- Alumni of U.S. institutions often become leaders in their home countries’ nuclear sectors—building enduring professional and institutional ties.
This academic ecosystem ensures that the benefits of nuclear cooperation are not just immediate but continue through generations of trained professionals.
A Partnership Focused on Your Success
The U.S. stands ready to support your nuclear energy ambitions, working with you to tailor solutions that fit your goals, infrastructure, and timeline — and to help ensure the long-term success of your clean energy programs.