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Idaho Advanced Energy Consortium's Milestone in Tech Hub Development

On January 2, 2026, the Idaho Advanced Energy Consortium (IAEC) proudly announced a major success with all five of its component projects advancing to Stage II for funding consideration under the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA). This development signifies a vital step towards establishing the Intermountain West Nuclear Energy Corridor (INEC), strengthening the region's commitment to pioneering advancements in nuclear technology.

A Strategic Initiative

The INEC Tech Hub was notably one of just 31 regional Tech Hubs selected by the EDA in 2023, with the IAEC being among 19 invited to submit further proposals under a recent funding notice. This recognition underscores their commitment to innovation and economic growth through nuclear energy.

IAEC's Executive Director, Christi Gilchrist, emphasized the importance of this achievement. She stated, "With the support of the EDA, the INEC Tech Hub is positioned as America's premier nuclear demonstration site. This advancement secures the nation's future in energy production, economic competitiveness, and national security." This statement reflects the consortium's broader vision of contributing significantly to the U.S.'s energy landscape.

Proposed Projects

The five component projects making up the INEC Stage I proposal encompass:
1. Accelerating Advanced Reactor Deployment: Focusing on fast-tracking the roll-out of new nuclear reactor technologies.
2. Modernizing Fuel Management: Innovating methods for handling and utilizing nuclear fuel effectively and safely.
3. Growing the Nuclear Workforce: Addressing the skilled labor gap by training new professionals in the nuclear sector.
4. Reinvigorating the Nuclear Supply Chain: Strengthening the supply chain to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of components.
5. Scaling America’s Nuclear Innovation: Enhancing research and development initiatives aimed at achieving breakthroughs in nuclear technologies.

The total funding request set forth by the INEC Tech Hub under the latest funding notice amounts to approximately $75 million, earmarked for supporting the aforementioned projects over the next five years. This financial backing is crucial for translating the consortium’s ambitious plans into reality.

The Road Ahead

The EDA has already conducted a thorough technical and merit review of the INEC Stage I application. In December, the IAEC received confirmation that its proposal passed this initial review phase, paving the way for a Stage II proposal to be submitted in February 2026. The EDA aims to complete the grant application reviews and announce awards by spring 2026.

Kirt Marlow, President of the IAEC, expressed pride in this collective effort, saying, "This advancement reflects the strength of our public-private partnerships and our consortium's ability to deliver on ambitious goals. We're grateful for the EDA's confidence and eager to demonstrate how strategic investment in our Tech Hub will accelerate America's energy transition." His comments highlight the collaborative spirit necessary for driving forward the energy transition in the U.S.

About the IAEC

The Idaho Advanced Energy Consortium was established in 2023 with the goal of uniting stakeholders from the energy sector to explore advancements in nuclear and other enhanced energy systems. The IAEC's focus includes promoting clean energy technologies such as improved methods for bulk hydrogen production, enhancing efficiencies in hydropower, and commercializing advanced nuclear technologies including small modular reactors and microreactors.

For more information about the Idaho Advanced Energy Consortium and its initiatives, please visit IAEC's official site.