The University of Idaho and Idaho National Laboratory (INL) have formalized a five-year partnership agreement aimed at enhancing nuclear energy innovation, national security, and a sustainable low-carbon energy future. This agreement, signed on January 27, expands over 75 years of collaboration between the two institutions in the field of nuclear energy research.

The Strategic Understanding for Premier Education and Research (SUPER) agreement emphasizes several key areas, including nuclear materials, fuel cycle engineering, integrated energy systems, and cybersecurity for power grids.

Key initiatives under the SUPER agreement include:

– Co-leading the newly established Idaho Energy Institute, which focuses on research, education, and workforce development to tackle energy challenges.
– Leading the Intermountain West Nuclear Energy Corridor (INEC) through the Idaho Advanced Energy Consortium. This initiative, designated as a “Tech Hub” by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA), aims to secure federal funding of up to $75 million for deploying advanced nuclear reactors, strengthening supply chains, and supporting workforce development.
– Advancing technologies related to nuclear fuel, such as molten salt reactors and fuel recycling processes, to enhance waste management and reactor safety.

Since 1954, the University of Idaho’s nuclear engineering program has collaborated with INL, which is recognized for its advancements in small modular reactor (SMR) technology and microgrid development. This partnership highlights Idaho’s position in the realm of clean energy innovation and workforce readiness.