Senator Katie Britt Discusses China’s Expanding Nuclear Capabilities
In a recent Senate hearing, Katie Britt engaged with Chris Wright from the U.S. Energy Agency, highlighting the rapid growth of China’s nuclear capabilities, particularly the increasing number of reactors. She pointed out that there are currently 28 facilities being constructed in China.
Britt expressed her concerns, stating, “They know they are working to undermine us. To me, this is very similar to what I observed in the manufacturing sector.”
She elaborated, saying, “They are using political and economic leverage effectively. I think we need to recognize this, especially in the context of AI. It’s not just an AI race; it’s an energy race, and we have to excel in both arenas.”
The senator questioned Wright about the current administration’s efforts to address China’s growing nuclear power and whether there’s enough funding to meet the challenge.
“China is advancing rapidly with their nuclear arsenal,” Wright responded. He noted that many of their reactors are essentially imitations of American technology but are built more quickly and cheaply due to less regulatory burden.
Wright mentioned that funding should be accessible through the Loan Program Office and emphasized the importance of using private capital efficiently to achieve advances more rapidly. “Investors should feel assured, as taxpayers will expect repayment,” he added.
Britt discussed plans for the U.S. to build the first high-speed spectral salt reactor, framing it as essential for “unleashing American energy control.”
She noted, “This new type of reactor could reshape the future of nuclear energy and is the kind of leadership we need across the country.”
She described the Molten Chloride Reactor Experiment as a groundbreaking step in nuclear technology, with the potential to revitalize the maritime industry and enhance America’s global advantage with deployable nuclear energy.
Wright affirmed that bolstering U.S. energy dominance is crucial for the administration, especially given the vulnerabilities in the American power grid, which he described as outdated and susceptible to attacks. “It’s a pressing issue. We are working to address it,” he stated.
A video of their full discussion is available online.
