Unlocking the Future of Nuclear
MCJ Podcast with INL’s Dr. John Wagner
Nuclear energy plays a crucial role in our global pursuit of clean, reliable, and abundant power. Its high energy density and low carbon emissions make it a key component of future energy solutions. The Idaho National Laboratory (INL), with its rich legacy of innovation, has been a pivotal player in the nuclear energy landscape. From producing the first usable electricity from nuclear power on its premises to developing advanced reactors, INL has consistently pushed the boundaries of what nuclear technology can achieve.
Today, INL continues to lead the way in nuclear research, exploring new reactor designs, advancing safety protocols, and collaborating with private companies to commercialize groundbreaking technologies. Under the leadership of Dr. John Wagner, INL is pioneering new projects like the Advanced Test Reactor, MARVEL, and PELE. These initiatives aim to reestablish the U.S. as a leader in nuclear reactor development, ensuring safety, efficiency, and commercial viability.
“I'm interested in the advancement of technologies and them being employed. You can develop all the technologies in the world. They can be the greatest technologies, but if nobody ever actually uses them, then in my opinion, they're irrelevant.” - Dr. John Wagner
INL’s work extends beyond research; it actively collaborates with private companies and regulatory bodies to bring innovative nuclear technologies to market. By focusing on the entire nuclear value chain—from fuel creation and reactor operation to waste management and cybersecurity—INL is shaping the future of energy and ensuring a resilient and sustainable power landscape for generations to come.
In the latest MCJ Podcast, we cover the history of INL, its key priorities, current projects under development, and Dr. Wagner’s vision for our nuclear future.
Get a sneak peek from the video below and listen to the full episode on Apple, Spotify, or your preferred podcast player.
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no one wants nuclear waste sitting onsite (forever) at decommissioned nucelar power plants. No one wants to pour the million of cooling nuclar active water wastes into their streams or local bays. Our government does not care to find perminant nuclear waste repository sites: no state wants them in their back yard. WHO'S to blame them! nuclear waste lasts thousands of years. Also Nuclear energy is the most expnsive, to build to maintain to decommission....Green energy is the least expensive per kW hour. Don't buy into this BS. Don't consider nuclear as a viable choice....it's not.