Berkeley, CA – Deep Fission, Inc. (Deep Fission), an advanced nuclear energy company placing small modular reactors a mile underground, is proud to announce that it has been selected to participate in the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) new Nuclear Reactor Pilot Program.
The initiative provides participants with the opportunity to design, build, and operate advanced test reactors – with the goal of reaching criticality by July 4, 2026 – under a streamlined DOE authorization process as part of the Atomic Energy Act.
“We’re honored to be chosen for this national effort,” said Liz Muller, co-founder and CEO of Deep Fission. “This is a turning point for our team and opens a new pathway that could dramatically accelerate our timeline. It brings us that much closer to unleashing America’s leadership in atomic power and delivering the kind of energy future we know is possible.”
Deep Fission is one of only 11 projects chosen for the program, which was created in June following the President’s Executive Order to reform nuclear reactor testing at the DOE. The initiative enables reactor prototypes to be tested beyond the confines of national laboratories through a fast-tracked licensing process designed to shorten deployment timelines. Participants will finance their own projects while receiving DOE support and access to private investment.
Deep Fission’s proprietary approach places 15 MWe small modular reactors a mile below Earth’s surface, enhancing safety, reducing surface infrastructure, and cutting costs by up to 80%. It draws on proven technologies from the oil and gas, geothermal, and nuclear industries to deliver a simple, cost-efficient solution.
The company looks forward to working with DOE to safely demonstrate reactor performance and strengthen the nation’s position in advanced nuclear innovation.
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About Deep Fission
Deep Fission is revolutionizing the energy landscape with innovative technology that places small modular reactors a mile underground. The team of leading scientists, engineers, and visionaries is driven by a shared commitment to advancing safe, reliable, and affordable low-carbon energy solutions. The company is actively engaged with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and is pursuing commercial projects worldwide. For more information, visit deepfission.com.
For media inquiries, please contact:
media@deepfission.com
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