President-elect Donald Trump just hinted at his support for nuclear power on Joe Rogan’s radio, calling it “better” than other power sources and expressing involvement in advancing little compact units.
His support comes as Big Tech’s AI products ‘ demand for more light is soared, and there is a pressing need for dependable power to reinvigorate America’s economy and restore its energy independence. About 50 years ago, President Richard Nixon envisioned a comparable way, laying the groundwork to build, as the Atomic Energy Commission predicted, 1, 000 nuclear units across the country by the year 2000. Although Nixon’s program inevitably faltered due to high costs, building losses, and his departure, yesterday’s renewed interest in nuclear raises the question: Are we finally ready to bring Nixon’s atomic dream to life?
Few events stand out as boldly as Nixon’s nuclear agenda’s unveiling in the history of American energy policy. His plan, set against the backdrop of the 1973 oil embargo, was both a response to the immediate crisis and a long-term strategy for the nation’s energy security. Nuclear power had the potential to diversify America’s energy portfolio and market, providing a backup in the event of a crisis in one sector, which was one of its advantages. In order to lessen domestic risks posed by reliance on foreign oil, Nixon envisaged a future where America’s cities and industries would be powered by the atom.
The rationale behind Nixon’s nuclear ambition was sound. Unlike renewable energy sources like solar and wind, which are intermittent, nuclear power plants provide a stable and trustworthy source of power. Nuclear plants have significantly improved their safety and effectiveness as a result of recent technological advancements, making them an even more appealing choice for national energy grids.
However, several factors derailed Nixon’s nuclear dream. Concerns about nuclear proliferation were already growing during the Cold War, particularly in relation to civilian nuclear programs that could enable the development of weapons if nuclear energy expanded into politically unstable areas. Public and political support for nuclear energy was significantly hampered by these proliferation concerns, which were further exacerbated by the Three Mile Island accident in 1979 and the Chernobyl disaster in 1986. Policymakers placed regulatory restrictions on the construction of nuclear plants, which ultimately turned out to be insurmountable due to this skepticism.
Despite these setbacks, a robust and diversified energy portfolio is still necessary. Today, as we grapple with the twin challenges of energy security and energy reliability, revisiting Nixon’s vision offers valuable lessons. The global landscape has changed, and the need for consistent, reliable, affordable energy has never been more obvious.  ,
Modern advancements in nuclear technology, such as small modular reactors ( SMRs ) and improved safety protocols, have addressed past concerns. SMRs offer the potential for lower capital costs, enhanced safety features, and flexibility in deployment, making them suitable for a variety of settings, including remote areas and existing power plants. For businesses looking to power their AI technologies, SMRs are emerging as the preferred reactor.
Policymakers and industry leaders must work together to unlock the full potential of nuclear energy. The most crucial tasks include streamlined regulatory processes, funding for research and development, and encouraging public trust through open communication and community engagement. Additionally, permanent waste storage options will require investing in deep geological repositories and recycling technologies.  ,
These issues are just the beginning of a new study by my colleagues and I at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, which also serves as a guideline for policymakers interested in the rebirth of the atomic age. We advise that Texas’s centralized contact, federal delegation, and proactive site selection supported by early meteorological and seismic data collection in order to expedite the adoption of nuclear energy. The U.S. military, with its significant energy demands and presence in Texas, should take the lead in developing nuclear technology through microreactor pilot projects in ERCOT.
Although Richard Nixon may have overoptimized for nuclear energy, it is still important to use it as a secure and reliable energy source in the future. Accepting a diversified energy strategy that includes nuclear power is essential to meeting our needs and ensuring a resilient energy grid as we face a future of increased energy demand. With the aid of modern technology and lessons learned, revisiting and updating Nixon’s dream will help usher in a more prosperous and bright future.
A proud Texan, Greyson Gee is a policy analyst at the Texas Public Policy Foundation. Before coming to the Foundation, he worked with the U. S. House Ways and Means Committee. You can find him on X at @greysontgee.
