US Braces for Russian Uranium Imports Ban

The United States is set to ban imports of Russian uranium, a move that will help increase domestic uranium fuel processing capacity, according to an outgoing top nuclear energy official in Washington cited by Reuters. 

The Senate passed the legislation last Tuesday as part of ongoing efforts to curb revenues for Russia’s war on Ukraine. The ban will take effect 90 days after President Joe Biden signs the bill into law, with the Department of Energy (DOE) able to issue waivers if supply concerns threaten national security. Biden is currently expected to sign the bill within the next ten days.

Despite fears that Russian President Vladimir Putin could retaliate by freezing exports to the US, causing a sharp increase in uranium prices, Kathryn Huff, outgoing Assistant Secretary for Nuclear at the DOE, said that the US is prepared to end reliance on Russia. In 2022, Russia supplied the US with 24% of the uranium needed for reactors and was its top foreign supplier.

The ban unlocks $2.7 billion in new funding for nuclear fuel supply programs at DOE, on top of $700 million already available from the Inflation Reduction Act. Companies like Centrus and Urenco are expected to play a key role in expanding domestic enrichment capabilities. 

The industry has largely been anticipating the ban, and while it may pose some challenges, experts believe it will ultimately be helpful in providing a concrete deadline for the industry to plan against. 

The ban represents a significant windfall for domestic fuel supply, but the success of the transition will depend on the timely implementation of the program by the DOE and the industry’s ability to adapt.

Information for this story was found via Reuters, Axios, and the sources and companies mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to the organizations discussed. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.