Flibe Energy enthusiastically welcomes the recent passage of Senate Joint Resolution 67 (SJR67) by the Alabama Legislature, which formally supports the acquisition and secure storage of uranium-233 (U-233) in our state. This initiative represents an important opportunity for Alabama to lead the nation in next-generation nuclear energy innovation while creating substantial economic benefits for our communities.
A Strategic Resource for Advanced Nuclear Technology
As Alabama’s pioneering developer of molten salt reactor technology, Flibe Energy has long advocated for preserving the nation’s valuable U-233 resources. This rare isotope is essential for research and development of thorium fuel cycle technologies, including our Lithium Fluoride Thorium Reactor (LFTR) design. This resolution represents a watershed moment for advanced nuclear development in Alabama. By securing this strategic resource, the state is positioning itself at the forefront of next-generation energy solutions that promise to be safer, more economical, and environmentally sustainable.
The Promise of Thorium and U-233
U-233, currently stored at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee, represents a critical bridge to unlocking thorium’s vast potential as an energy source. Thorium is abundantly available, produces minimal waste, and offers significant advantages over conventional nuclear fuels. When used in advanced reactor designs like our LFTR, thorium can provide clean, reliable energy with enhanced safety features.
U-233 represents one of the most effective ways to kickstart a reactor on the thorium fuel cycle, and is created when thorium-232 absorbs a neutron. Our liquid-fluoride reactor technology is specifically engineered to optimize this process, creating a sustainable cycle that maximizes energy production while minimizing waste. By securing access to existing U-233 supplies, Alabama can accelerate the development and deployment of these revolutionary technologies.
Economic and Strategic Benefits for Alabama
SJR67 correctly identifies the substantial economic opportunities this initiative presents for our state. Relocating U-233 to Alabama would:
- Create high-quality technical and manufacturing jobs across the state
- Attract significant federal investment in research and development
- Support Alabama companies developing advanced reactor technologies
- Encourage private investment and business relocation to our region
- Strengthen Alabama’s position as a leader in energy innovation
Building on Alabama’s Nuclear Heritage
Alabama has a proud history of supporting scientific innovation, national security, and economic development through advanced technologies. Our state is home to a skilled workforce with extensive experience in engineering, manufacturing, and nuclear operations, making it an ideal location for this initiative.
Flibe Energy, founded in 2011 in Huntsville, has been at the forefront of developing liquid-fluoride nuclear reactors that provide clean energy with minimal waste. Our technology builds upon proven research conducted at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, modernized for commercial deployment to address today’s energy challenges.
Collaborative Pathway Forward
We applaud the Alabama Legislature’s foresight in supporting this initiative and urge our congressional delegation to collaborate with federal authorities to facilitate the transfer of U-233 to appropriate facilities within our state.
Flibe Energy stands ready to support this effort through our technical expertise and industry connections. We look forward to working with the proposed task force to identify suitable sites, assess infrastructure needs, and develop comprehensive plans for the secure and productive management of U-233.
About Flibe Energy
Flibe Energy, headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama, is developing innovative thorium-based solutions for a sustainable energy future. Our Lithium Fluoride Thorium Reactor (LFTR) technology offers significant advantages over conventional nuclear power: inherent safety features, minimal waste production, and efficient resource utilization. Flibe Energy is committed to creating clean, reliable, and affordable energy solutions for future generations.
For more information about Flibe Energy and our technologies, visit flibe.com/technology.