Fast reactors are a corner stone energy technology with the potential to greatly increase natural resource utilization for sustainable energy generation while also reducing used fuel disposal burdens and supporting nuclear security and non-proliferation objectives. Therefore, a focused research, development and demonstration (RD&D) investment in fast reactor technology is important for developing and maintaining options for future U.S. energy, economic, environmental and national security interests. Good ideas and intentions alone are insufficient to drive the level of industry investment needed to advance the state of nuclear technology to the point of commercial adoption of Generation Ⅳ nuclear energy systems. The U.S. government remains the principal source of RD&D funding for high risk endeavors at this scale; however, vendors and utilities represent the engines of commercial implementation and must be meaningfully involved in all phases of development. In this paper, a new conversation is proposed on the means and ends for prioritizing and maturing promising nuclear energy technology options. Specifically, approach, principles, roles, resources and priorities are outlined to serve as a basis for an industry-supported fast reactor RD&D program for the U.S. As in any long-term investment strategy, the proposed pathway represents just one of what should be a multi-pronged, diverse, balanced portfolio of nuclear technologies for a robust, long-term national RD&D program. In order to maintain the option of a deployable U.S.-based fast reactor technology by mid-century, action is needed now given the long lead times required for development and demonstration of new technologies and supporting infrastructures.
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