Only 7% of U.S. nuclear fuel is domestically produced, highlighting supply-chain vulnerability and prompting policy pushes for homegrown enrichment
Executive summary: Only 7% of the nuclear fuel used in U.S. reactors is produced domestically, according to OilPrice reporting. Such low domestic share makes the nuclear power sector vulnerable to supply disruptions and price spikes in the global uranium market.
Who is involved: The Trump administration, U.S. nuclear utilities, uranium miners, and enrichment companies.
Likely next: Policy proposals to incentivize domestic enrichment and expansion of uranium mining are expected to be debated in Congress later this year.
The United States remains the world's largest producer of nuclear energy, yet relies on imports for over 90% of its nuclear fuel. This dependence exposes the sector to geopolitical and market risks, especially as global uranium prices fluctuate. The Trump administration’s push for a domestic nuclear renaissance aims to boost enrichment capacity and reduce foreign reliance, which could reshape investment in uranium mining and fuel cycle industries.
Timeline
- — Just 7% of America’s Nuclear Fuel Comes From Home (OilPrice)