The U.S. Senate has overwhelmingly approved a landmark bipartisan bill to modernize America’s nuclear energy sector, passing it with an 88–2 vote. The measure is being praised as one of the most significant clean-energy steps in recent years, aiming to strengthen reliable power generation while advancing national climate goals.

At its heart, the legislation streamlines the licensing process for new nuclear plants and simplifies environmental reviews — an effort to remove long-standing bureaucratic barriers that have slowed innovation. Lawmakers say the changes will help the U.S. compete globally and support a cleaner, more resilient energy grid.

A major emphasis is on small modular reactors (SMRs), compact next-generation systems designed to be safer, more flexible, and more affordable than traditional large reactors. These smaller units could supply carbon-free energy to remote regions, industrial facilities, and communities seeking stable, emissions-free power.