Idaho Announces Advanced Nuclear Strategic Framework and State Task Force

In September 2025, the Idaho Governor's Office of Energy and Mineral Resources (OEMR) and Idaho Strategic Energy Alliance released the Idaho Advanced Nuclear Strategic Framework. The Framework is a comprehensive strategy for advancing the state's nuclear energy industry through coordination with key stakeholders including utilities, Idaho National Laboratory, universities, state agencies, local governments, and industry. Specific state resources highlighted in the document include the expertise of the National Laboratory, educational partnerships and workforce potential, rich mineral resources such as thorium and uranium, and regional partnerships with states such as Utah and Wyoming. The Framework also walks through recommendations related to policy and funding, supply chain, and data collection.

"The Advanced Nuclear Strategic Framework positions Idaho to attract private investment, expand supply chains, and prepare the workforce necessary to lead in this critical industry. This is an important step in ensuring Idaho continues to deliver reliable energy solutions that benefit our citizens and our economy," OEMR Administrator Cally Younger said.

The final Framework can be found here. To support development of the Framework, Idaho utilized a resource developed by NASEO and the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners, Developing State Advanced Nuclear Energy Strategic Frameworks: Guidance for State Energy Offices and Public Utility Commissions.

Additionally, in September 2025, Idaho Governor Brad Little signed an executive order at Idaho National Laboratory establishing the Idaho Advanced Nuclear Energy Task Force. The Task Force will be established to assess, recommend, and support strategies that support the state's leadership in nuclear energy innovation, deployment, and workforce development. Priority topics include spent nuclear fuel, legislative and regulatory reforms, energy resiliency and security, and more. More information can be found here.