Gov. Braun launches Advanced Nuclear Ready Community program

Submitted by Office of Governor Mike Braun

Indiana Governor Mike Braun announced on Wednesday, July 15, the launch of the Indiana Advanced Nuclear Ready Community program. The initiative supports Hoosier communities seeking designation as sites for nuclear energy-related development.

The program forms a core part of Indiana’s broader state strategy to attract clean energy investment. It focuses specifically on small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced nuclear facilities. By demonstrating local preparedness, infrastructure capacity, and community support, Indiana aims to lead the nation in nuclear manufacturing and deployment.

“Strengthening energy affordability for all Hoosiers is a cornerstone of our all-of-the-above approach,” Gov. Braun said. “Affordability is why advanced nuclear energy is a top priority. We are working now to ensure our energy resources remain robust and resilient. This initiative provides a strategic roadmap to enhance innovation while aligning with communities to strengthen workforce programs and prepare local talent for high-tech energy careers. Ultimately, these advancements – small modular reactors in particular – represent the innovative solutions needed to bring critical new sources of energy generation to Indiana.”

The program introduces a structured, three-tier designation framework. This design allows participating counties and regions to progress through increasing levels of regulatory, workforce, and infrastructure readiness. To support this rollout, the Indiana Office of Energy Development (OED) created a comprehensive digital toolkit containing resources, templates, and reference materials to guide local leaders through the qualification process.

“The Indiana Advanced Nuclear Ready Community program bridges the gap between state strategy and local economic development,” Indiana Secretary of Energy and Natural Resources Suzanne Jaworowski said. “By empowering communities to proactively assess their infrastructure and align local goals, Indiana is significantly reducing developer risk and accelerating timelines for advanced energy investment.”

Interested local officials can review the toolkit and application requirements on the OED website.

The newly launched initiative aims to:

• Ensure Community Buy-in: Educate local leaders and community members on nuclear energy and the benefits it can offer.
• Reduce Developer Risk: Complete upfront site assessments and community alignment before developers engage.
• Attract Nuclear Leaders: Demonstrate local readiness, workforce capacity, and regulatory familiarity to global manufacturers.
• Build Local Pipelines: Establish partnerships with educational institutions to train the future nuclear workforce.
• Coordinate Stakeholder Alignment: Synchronize state, utility, and local rules around nuclear siting and permitting.
• Sustain Public Engagement: Provide continuous community education on advanced nuclear safety and economic impacts.

Any county or region in Indiana, acting in coordination with its constituent cities and towns, is eligible to apply for the designation. Community leaders are strongly encouraged to engage with the OED to discuss baseline readiness and receive dedicated technical assistance prior to submitting a formal application.

Designation criteria for the program include: Community education, site characteristics, community support, workforce and education readiness, along with regulatory and governance readiness.