Wedoany.com Report-Aug. 17, Nuclear technology company Oklo Inc and nuclear fuel company Lightbridge Corporation have entered a strategic partnership to explore co-locating a Lightbridge fuel fabrication facility within Oklo’s planned advanced fuel manufacturing infrastructure. The collaboration, formalized through a memorandum of understanding signed earlier this year, focuses on assessing the feasibility of commercial-scale fuel fabrication.

The initiative aims to accelerate the development and commercialization of advanced nuclear fuels by combining joint fuel fabrication with research and development efforts. The proposed facility would produce fuels for both fast reactors and light water reactors, utilizing materials such as repurposed plutonium from legacy sources. This aligns with U.S. executive orders issued in May 2025, which prioritize advancing nuclear energy deployment and establishing a program to process surplus plutonium for advanced reactor fuel.

The co-located facility would serve as a hub for research and production, supporting the development of innovative nuclear fuels. The companies emphasized their commitment to enhancing domestic nuclear fuel manufacturing and recycling, contributing to a resilient and independent energy supply chain. The partnership supports the deployment of advanced reactors and improves the performance of existing light water reactors.

Jacob DeWitte, co-founder and CEO of Oklo, stated: “It directly aligns with strong federal direction supporting domestic fuel independence.” He highlighted that the collaboration strengthens near- and mid-term fuel supplies for advanced reactors by leveraging materials like down-blended uranium and repurposed plutonium.

Seth Grae, president and CEO of Lightbridge Corporation, said: “This joint effort reflects a shared vision for a modern nuclear fuel cycle - one that supports both existing and advanced reactors and strengthens America’s energy resilience. Together, we’re working toward a new era of US-led nuclear innovation.”

The partnership between Oklo and Lightbridge aims to advance nuclear fuel technology, supporting the U.S. goal of expanding clean energy solutions. By combining their expertise, the companies seek to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of nuclear energy production, contributing to a robust domestic energy infrastructure.