The United States is preparing to launch a program that would provide Cold War-era plutonium to nuclear energy startups for fuel production, according to recent reports. The initiative aims to address both the disposal of legacy nuclear materials and current fuel supply challenges facing the nuclear industry.

The program has generated market interest, with nuclear technology company Oklo seeing its stock price rise following news of the initiative. Oklo, which is backed by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, is among the companies positioned to potentially benefit from access to government plutonium stockpiles.

Nuclear industry advocates argue the program represents an efficient solution to two pressing issues: safely disposing of weapons-grade plutonium accumulated during the Cold War and addressing shortages of nuclear fuel that have constrained reactor operations. The plutonium would be converted into fuel suitable for civilian nuclear reactors.

However, the plan has encountered criticism from some quarters, though specific concerns were not detailed in available reports. The initiative reflects broader U.S. efforts to revitalize domestic nuclear energy capabilities and reduce reliance on foreign fuel sources.

The timing of the program comes as the nuclear industry faces ongoing fuel supply constraints and as the government seeks cost-effective methods for disposing of legacy nuclear materials from the weapons program. Details about program implementation, participant selection criteria, and timeline remain to be announced by federal agencies.