KNEDA issues RFI for Nuclear Reactor Site Readiness Pilot Program

The Kentucky Nuclear Energy Development Authority (KNEDA) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) related to Kentucky’s Nuclear Reactor Site Readiness Pilot Program, established by Senate Bill 57 during the 2026 Regular Session of the Kentucky General Assembly.  

The pilot program is designed to support eligible nuclear energy projects by providing a framework through which the General Assembly may award grant funding for a portion of the costs associated with pursuing certain U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission licenses and permits, including early site permits, construction permits and combined operating licenses. Under the enacted legislation, grant awards may cover up to one-third of eligible costs, subject to a maximum of $25 million per project. 

Established by the Kentucky General Assembly in 2024, KNEDA serves as the Commonwealth’s nonregulatory, trusted state agency on nuclear energy issues and development. The authority supports and facilitates the growth of Kentucky’s nuclear energy ecosystem through efforts that strengthen the economy, expand energy education, prepare a future workforce, protect the environment and encourage engagement with communities across Kentucky. KNEDA is administratively attached to the University of Kentucky Center for Applied Energy Research.

As part of its implementation responsibilities, KNEDA is requesting preliminary information from organizations that may be interested in participating in the program, including potential project timelines, partnerships, site readiness, workforce development needs, community engagement efforts and other factors that could influence future applications.

Due Nov. 6, RFI responses will help KNEDA better understand the level and nature of interest in the pilot program and support development of an effective and practical application process. The RFI is an information-gathering tool and is not an application for grant funding. 

Organizations interested in providing information are encouraged to review the RFI and submission instructions available online. 

For additional information about KNEDA and its programs, visit caer.uky.edu/kneda.