Last Energy, Texas A&M Collaborate to Launch Microreactor Pilot at Texas A&M-RELLIS
Project Secures Land, Fuel, and DOE Pathway for Scaled Nuclear Demonstration
BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION, Texas — The Texas A&M University System and Last Energy today announced a major step forward in advanced nuclear innovation with the deployment of a pilot microreactor at Texas A&M-RELLIS, an applied research campus.
The pilot will feature Last Energy’s PWR-5 reactor, which is a scaled version of its larger, commercial PWR-20 design. The 5-megawatt reactor will be built to initially demonstrate safe, low-power criticality and, then in later phases, the ability to generate electricity for the grid. The project is fully financed with private capital and is expected to begin testing in the summer of next year.
“This pilot project it’s an example of what’s possible when we try to meet the needs of the state and tap into the latest technologies,” Robert Albritton, chairman of the Board of Regents of The Texas A&M University System, said. “This is a proud moment for the Texas A&M System and a meaningful step forward to unleash American energy innovation.”
This initiative marks Last Energy’s first U.S. reactor deployment and was selected by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for fast-tracked licensing under its New Reactor Pilot Program, following an executive order by President Trump to reform and accelerate nuclear reactor development.
“This is exactly the kind of project we had in mind when we built Texas A&M-RELLIS. It’s bold, it’s forward-looking, and it brings together private innovation and public research to solve today’s energy challenges,” Chancellor Glenn Hegar of The Texas A&M University System said. “We’re proud to work with Last Energy to help shape the future of nuclear power, and we are even prouder that it’s happening right here at Texas A&M-RELLIS.”
Last Energy has secured a land lease at Texas A&M-RELLIS, procured a full core load of low-enriched uranium fuel, signed an Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) with the DOE and begun formal submissions.
“We’re partnering with Texas A&M to usher in the next Atomic Era,” said Bret Kugelmass, Founder and CEO of Last Energy. “With fuel in hand, an optimal site at RELLIS, and DOE authorization underway, we have the ideal conditions to demonstrate a standardized, scalable microreactor product to the United States.”
Congressman Michael McCaul – who represents Texas’s 10th Congressional District, which includes all of Brazos County – praised the announcement.
“I’m consistently amazed by the cutting-edge projects and innovation at Texas A&M — and today’s announcement is no exception,” the congressman said. “This bold partnership between Last Energy and the RELLIS Campus will help ensure Texas leads the way in powering our nation with reliable, clean, and safe energy for years to come. I’m proud to represent such a forward-looking university and will continue supporting A&M’s groundbreaking work in the U.S. Congress.”
Bryan Mayor Bobby Gutierrez said he supports the work that will be done by the A&M System and Last Energy as a way to bring safe and reliable power to the region.
“The City of Bryan, in partnership with Texas A&M’s RELLIS Campus, is emerging as a vital hub for 21st-century innovation,” Gutierrez said. “From clean energy and advanced manufacturing to aerospace, hypersonics and semiconductor development, Bryan is where groundbreaking research meets real-world application. Today’s announcement by Last Energy is a powerful example of that promise—bringing next-generation nuclear innovation to life right here in our community, in partnership with one of the most forward-looking university systems in the nation.”
About The Texas A&M University System
The Texas A&M University System is one of the largest and most impactful higher education systems in the country, with an annual budget of $7.3 billion. Its statewide network includes 12 universities, a comprehensive health science center, eight state agencies, Texas A&M–Fort Worth and Texas A&M–RELLIS. The System serves nearly 170,000 students and reaches millions more through service, research and outreach programs each year. With nearly $1.6 billion in annual research expenditures, the System fuels innovation, supports communities and drives Texas’ economy forward.
Media Contact:
Chris Bryan
Vice Chancellor of Marketing and Communications
cbryan@tamus.edu