Oklahoma’s Energy and Environment Secretary Jeff Starling presented a comprehensive plan for a new nuclear campus that could bring as many as 25,000 jobs to the state. The proposal outlines a three‑part complex that would include reactors and isotope production, fuel enrichment and recycling, and a dedicated area for the safe disposal of used nuclear fuel.

Safety and regulation at the forefront

Starling stressed that modern nuclear power is far safer than it was half a century ago. He pointed to the long‑standing safety record of naval reactors that power U.S. warships and highlighted the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s stringent oversight, noting that the industry is now among the most heavily regulated worldwide.

Economic benefits for Oklahoma families

State leaders contrasted the nuclear campus with data‑center projects, arguing that the former offers a far larger employment impact. While a data center might provide a handful of jobs, the nuclear facility could generate up to 25,000 positions across the state, delivering a substantial boost to local economies and returning electricity to the grid rather than drawing it away.

Waste management and environmental stewardship

The plan includes a deep‑geologic repository for spent fuel, a method that isolates waste safely underground for the long term. Starling explained that waste handling is a standard part of many industrial processes and that the proposed disposal system would be managed within the campus, adhering to best‑in‑class safety protocols.

Regional competition and federal selection

Oklahoma is competing with Tennessee, West Virginia, Louisiana, Utah and Idaho for a federal award that could fund at least three state‑level nuclear campuses. The federal decision is expected by the end of the year, and the state hopes its robust safety record and economic promise will secure the bid.

What’s next for the project?

The full presentation is available on the state’s website, offering detailed maps and timelines. While the exact location of the campus remains undecided, officials say the project will bring significant economic input without draining local resources. Community members are encouraged to stay informed as the federal selection process unfolds.

Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.