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A New Era in Nuclear Fuel Production: Oklo and Centrus Join Forces

In a strategic announcement made on March 9, 2026, Oklo Inc. and Centrus Energy Corp. revealed their intent to form a joint venture aimed at advancing nuclear fuel services in Ohio. This collaboration is particularly focused on the development of deconversion services for high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) and enhancing related technologies in the nuclear fuel cycle. The venture will be established at Centrus' Piketon site, known for its uranium enrichment operations, which is in close proximity to Oklo's upcoming power campus.

The Importance of Deconversion Services

Once uranium is mined and processed, it undergoes a vital step called deconversion, where it is transformed into more usable forms like uranium oxide or metal. This stage is imperative for fabricating fuel for advanced nuclear reactors. By co-locating deconversion and enrichment services at the same site, Oklo and Centrus aim to streamline processes to improve efficiency and reduce costs, thereby enhancing the domestic nuclear fuel capacity vital for fulfilling Oklo's energy needs and broader U.S. nuclear deployment initiatives.

Oklo's CEO, Jacob DeWitte, emphasized the significance of having a reliable fuel supply chain to sustain advanced nuclear energy development. He stated, “This framework supports deeper discussions with Centrus on potential pathways to expand deconversion capacity, strengthen domestic supply chains, and advance a more efficient fuel-cycle model.” This sentiment was echoed by Centrus’ President and CEO, Amir Vexler, who remarked on the necessity of rebuilding the U.S. nuclear fuel cycle capabilities, highlighting their commitment to establishing innovative deconversion services.

Addressing Bottlenecks in Nuclear Fuel Supply

The partnership is driven by the need to overcome current bottlenecks hindering the rapid deployment of nuclear power technologies. With multiple reactor technologies under development in the U.S., each requiring unique fuel requirements, the potential joint venture seeks to consolidate efforts. A centralized hub for deconversion services would not only eliminate redundancy among various fuel fabrication facilities but also significantly reduce costs associated with shipping HALEU, thus increasing competitiveness within the sector.

Furthermore, the collaboration reflects a broader initiative to coordinate regulatory and research activities that help streamline operations. The involved parties plan to engage U.S. federal agencies to facilitate the establishment of these services in Pike County, aligning with efforts to boost U.S. nuclear fuel-cycle infrastructure.

Collaboration with Local Development Efforts

This proposed joint venture also aligns with redevelopment initiatives led by the Southern Ohio Diversification Initiative (SODI), which aims to repurpose lands from the former Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant into a hub for clean energy and advanced manufacturing. By advancing nuclear fuel services, Oklo and Centrus are not just focusing on their business interests but also contributing to the long-term economic development of the region.

About Oklo Inc.

Oklo Inc. is at the forefront of developing fast fission power plants designed to deliver clean, reliable energy on a global scale. The company is dedicated to establishing a domestic supply chain for essential radioisotopes and improving nuclear fuel recycling processes. Being the first to secure a site use permit for a commercial advanced fission plant from the U.S. Department of Energy demonstrates Oklo's pioneering spirit within the nuclear sector.

About Centrus Energy Corp.

Centrus Energy has been a key player in supplying nuclear fuel and services to the nuclear power industry since 1998. With its strong engineering capabilities, the company is committed to meeting the increasing demand for clean, affordable energy solutions. Centrus is leading efforts in HALEU production and is crucial in restoring the United States' uranium enrichment capabilities, which is vital for the nation's energy security.

This partnership is more than just a business arrangement; it marks a crucial step towards a sustainable and powerful nuclear energy future for the United States, highlighting the growing recognition of nuclear energy's essential role in achieving carbon-free energy goals.