Elemental Power: Rebuilding Trust in Nuclear with Dr. Jeff Waksman (Part 2)

National Security Law Today

As energy needs skyrocket and climate pressure mounts, the conversation around nuclear is shifting—from fear to feasibility. In Part 2 of their discussion, Elisa and Dr. Jeff Waksman dive into the historical baggage, policy bottlenecks, and environmental considerations shaping nuclear’s future. They explore common misconceptions about reactor safety, how microreactors like Project Pele navigate regulatory hurdles, and why a new wave of interest—from data centers to climate advocates—is putting nuclear back on the table.

Dr. Jeff Waksman is a Program Manager at the Strategic Capabilities Office (SCO) where he leads Project Pele and Project TRISO

References:

Project Pele Overview

The CHIPS and Science Act

The Inflation Reduction Act

"China’s Demonstration HTR-PM Enters Commercial Operation” World Nuclear News, 6 Dec. 2023