The Versatile Test Reactor (VTR) is a one-of-a-kind scientific user facility capable of performing large-scale fast spectrum neutron irradiation tests and experiments simply not possible today. It will support research, development and demonstration of innovative nuclear energy technologies (with focus on fuels, materials and sensors in representative environments) that can supply the world with abundant carbon-free energy. With the addition of VTR, the U.S. will again lead the world in nuclear energy research, safety, and security while also supporting U.S. industry partners as they commercialize new technologies.

Test reactors are scientific research tools. They provide intense neutron fluxes that are used to simulate prototypical conditions or conduct accelerated neutron damage irradiation studies. In-situ measurements and subsequent post-irradiation examination techniques provide valuable information on how fuels, materials, components, and instrumentation withstand the extreme conditions inside nuclear power plants and even future fusion reactors. This enables scientists and engineers to design safer, longer-lasting and more efficient fuels, materials, and components for nuclear energy systems.

Existing test reactors, like the Advanced Test Reactor at Idaho National Laboratory and the High Flux Isotope Reactor at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, are thermal neutron reactors and are not capable of sustaining neutrons at concentrations and speeds high enough to perform accelerated testing of innovative nuclear technologies under development.

Not in the U.S. The only viable capability for testing fast spectrum irradiation currently accessible to U.S. companies is the BOR-60 reactor in the Russian Federation. U.S. researchers and developers encounter significant barriers when seeking access to Russian Federation reactors, including export control concerns for materials and fuels testing, intellectual property rights, quality assurance and transportation issues.

Nuclear power plants in the U.S. are closing largely because operators are struggling to compete with the influx of cheap natural gas. However, investment in nuclear energy around the globe is rising. Countries such as India and China are building nuclear reactors to bring clean, reliable, and abundant electricity to areas without it. Other countries are investing in nuclear technologies to not only provide electricity and clean water, but also provide a clean source of high-temperature process heat needed for industrial applications. To participate in this lucrative export market, U.S. companies are developing innovative and right-sized advanced nuclear reactor systems that can help supply the world with clean, carbon-free power.

VTR will operate as a scientific user facility and will support research and development for private industry, national labs, universities, and international entities. Just as with other DOE scientific user facilities, VTR will be accessed through contracts, grants, and other methods that help offset costs. In addition, VTR is exploring cost-share arrangements through the development of public-private partnerships with industry and other partners. The U.S. government, through national labs and agencies, has long provided research infrastructure and tools needed to advance technologies and innovation across the public and private sectors.

The U.S. has long been a leader in not only the research and development of nuclear energy technologies but also in the licensing, safety procedures, operations, and security of these power plants. Because of that, many other countries have based their nuclear operations and regulations on what we do in the U.S. This has led to the safer and more efficient operations of commercial nuclear power reactors around the world. Also, when other countries import and deploy U.S. nuclear energy technologies, U.S establishes a long-term strategic partnership and collaborations with those countries for many decades to come. New scientific facilities such as VTR will enable the U.S. to modernize its nuclear energy research and development infrastructure and retain its leadership role.

Some of the new reactor designs nearing demonstration stage today can be built now because they are based on proven light water reactor technologies or technologies developed using the existing test reactors for thermal spectrum designs. And some other advanced reactor concepts have been operated as prototypes, while others have not. In the long run, many of the advanced reactor technologies will benefit from the kinds of innovative fuels, material, and instruments and sensors that can only be developed through the use of fast spectrum irradiation capabilities provided by VTR for continuous innovation and improvements.

Final design and construction will commence in 2022 and VTR would be fully operational in 2026, subject to adequate level of funding appropriations by Congress.

The U.S. Department of Energy has proposed building the VTR complex at one of its national laboratory sites and has contracted with a company to evaluate locations at Idaho National Laboratory and Oak Ridge National Laboratory in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

Since VTR will be used for research and not to generate electricity, it does not fall under the jurisdiction of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). VTR will be overseen by the U.S. Department of Energy, which has the legal authority to develop and operate reactors as authorized by the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 and the Energy Reorganization Act of 1974. DOE, just like the NRC, places great importance on protecting the public, workers, and the environment. The two federal agencies are working closely as NRC prepares to license new commercial reactors in the future.

Based on the conceptual design, cost and schedule estimates, the following are expected job numbers for the various phases of the project.