Our Industry
What is Nuclear Energy?
Nuclear energy is a clean, reliable source of baseload power, fueled by uranium—a natural resource found in abundance in New Mexico. It plays a vital role in meeting our nation’s energy needs, generating approximately 20% of all electricity in the United States. Recognized for its security, affordability, and consistency, nuclear energy remains one of the most dependable energy sources available today.
As a carbon-free energy solution, nuclear power is both clean and efficient-, capable of producing vast amounts of electricity from a relatively small amount of fuel – without emitting harmful greenhouse gases associated with fossil fuels. Unlike some renewable sources that depend on weather conditions, nuclear energy delivers continuous, 24/7 power.
By harnessing New Mexico’s rich uranium resources, nuclear energy offers a path toward a more sustainable, affordable, and energy-secure future for the United States.
Strengthening National Security and Economic Stability through Domestic Uranium Extraction
The United States remains one of the world’s largest consumers of nuclear energy, yet continues to rely heavily on imported uranium to fuel its reactors. This dependence on foreign supply chains exposes the nation to geopolitical risks and potential disruptions that could impact both energy security and defense readiness.
By responsibly developing our abundant domestic uranium resources found across several U.S. states, we can significantly reduce this reliance on imports. Expanding domestic uranium production not only enhances national security and ensures a reliable supply of this critical mineral but also supports job creation, strengthens local economies, and contributes to a more resilient and self-sufficient energy infrastructure.
New Mexico
A Key Player in the Nuclear Energy Landscape
New Mexico is home to some of the richest uranium reserves in the United States, particularly within the Grants Mineral Belt, which holds some of the largest untapped uranium deposits in the world. At its peak, the state was a leading producer of uranium, supplying a substantial share of the fuel used in to produce clean energy across the nation.
Production slowed in the late 1980s as uranium prices declined, global demand shifted, and environmental concerns led to the closure of many operations.
Today, with rising global demand for clean energy and the adoption of environmentally responsible extraction technologies such as In-Situ Recovery (“ISR”), New Mexico is well positioned to re-establish itself as a major center of uranium production. Revitalizing this sector would enhance U.S. energy security, support economic growth, and contribute to the nation’s transition toward a sustainable, carbon-free energy future.
Nuclear Energy is Safe
Nuclear energy is one of the safest and most reliable forms of clean energy, backed by decades of innovation and strict regulation. Ongoing advancements continue to enhance its safety, efficiency, and sustainability.
Nuclear Energy is Carbon Free
It is the largest source of carbon-free electricity in the United States and protects our air quality by generating electricity without other harmful pollutants like nitrogen oxide, sulfur dioxide, particulate matter, or mercury.
Nuclear Energy is Reliable
Nuclear plants are the most efficient source of electricity, operating 24/7 at a more than 93 percent average capacity factor.
Industry Updates
The Prohibiting Russian Uranium Imports Act (H.R. 1042) was signed into law and reinforces the necessity for uranium produced domestically in the US.
Nuclear Fuel Security Act 2024 establishes new programs and expands existing programs to increase domestic supplies of certain types of low-enriched uranium.
FAST-41 (Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act of 2015) established a framework to streamline federal permitting for major infrastructure and energy projects by setting clear timelines, coordinated reviews, and public transparency through the Federal Permitting Dashboard.