Oklo advances toward nuclear power deal with U.S. Air Force for microreactors
Oklo intends to create a 75 MW micro nuclear plant at Eielson Air Force Base during revitalized military nuclear initiatives.
Oklo, a U.S. company in the process of developing micro nuclear reactors, is closer to securing a power purchase agreement with the U.S. Air Force. The Defense Department's energy logistics agency has issued a notice of intent to award Oklo a contract for a pilot project to be located at Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska, and under the proposed agreement Oklo will design, build, own and operate the small nuclear plant and provide electricity and heat.
The initiative comes at a time when nuclear energy is coming into renewed focus from the U.S. military, and after President Donald Trump signed executive orders to support increasing nuclear power from existing facilities. The planned reactor is only producing 75 megawatts, significantly smaller than typical reactors with over 1,000 MW capabilities but Oklo is optimistic that the modular design will enable factory production of the reactor, and deployment in multiple bases.
Microreactor project and licensing challenges
In 2023, Oklo signed a memorandum of understanding (MOUs) to develop a Microreactor at Eielson, but it forfeited a $100M contract later that year when the military rescinded its intent to award. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission also denied Oklo's application for an operating license in 2022. Still, Oklo plans to re-apply by the end of 2025, and hopefully, get approved in 2027. Trump's order to the NRC is to process nuclear licenses in 18 months.
Oklo is still pushing forward with its microreactors technology, focusing on deploying this innovative energy power system to military bases. Oklo aims to supply clean, reliable power to remote locations, like Eielson, while decreasing the reliance on traditional energy sources.
Oklo is a nuclear technology company that will provide clean resources to Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska. Photo: Oklo Inc.
Concerns over plutonium use and security
Some experts in nuclear non-proliferation have expressed apprehension about the use of plutonium fuel by Oklo, which has the potential to be diverted for weapons use. Oklo argues that the plutonium will be bound with additional highly radioactive materials, and diverted from further use as a weapon will be nearly impossible.
The technology offered by the company seeks to address these security concerns while offering a compact, scalable power supply for the Forces. If successful this new in development concept microreactors are a new chapter in energy management by the armed forces at a remotely managed base.
