Utah lab signs MOUs with microreactor firms; lawmakers adopt resolution to back in‑state nuclear manufacturing

Emmy (director), identified in committee remarks as a state energy office director working with the San Rafael Energy Lab, told the committee the state has signed memoranda of understanding with private companies including Valor Atomics and NuCube Energy to pursue test reactors and fuel‑cycle work at the lab in Emery County. "Valor is one of the companies that we've entered into an MOU with, and they are hoping to site a test reactor at the San Rafael Energy Lab by 07/04/2026," Emmy said, describing the company's plan to produce heat and synthetic fuels as well as to scale multiple reactors at "giga sites."

Dr. Jaren Wallace, director of the Center for the Energy Lab in Orangeville, said the lab already hosts a mix of energy pilots and partners — including companies pursuing graphite production and battery recycling — and aims to add nuclear test capabilities while staying a multi‑technology proving ground. Emmy and Wallace said other partners include NuSano (medical isotopes and HA‑LEU work) and Holtec (workforce/SMR interest). "We have national attention," Emmy said, adding the lab can shorten timelines relative to larger national labs.

Representative Albrecht introduced a concurrent resolution expressing the Legislature's desire to support advanced nuclear manufacturing in Utah. He said Utah has existing resources — a zirconium cladding plant in Ogden, the White Mesa mill, and regional uranium mines — and that the resolution signals to potential investors that the state welcomes industry. After brief committee discussion, a motion was made and the committee adopted the proposal as a committee bill; the chair ruled the motion passed on a voice vote. The transcript records a unanimous voice vote but no roll call tally.

Public commenters offered contrasting views. Jeff Hartley, a lobbyist who spoke in favor, noted prior federal efforts to incentivize fuel reprocessing and said industry seeks states that publicly welcome the supply chain. "This is a big deal, for those industries," he said in support of the resolution. Steve Erickson, a longtime volunteer with Downwinders, urged caution and said Utah has a difficult nuclear history; he called for a ‘‘prove it first’’ approach and robust public engagement. Lexi Tundenham (online) also urged informed public dialogue and attention to waste and long‑term storage.

Committee members discussed next steps: Representative Albrecht said the resolution communicates to companies that Utah is a willing partner, and the chair instructed staff to continue coordination with the Office of Energy Development, county partners and the San Rafael Energy Lab.