INL, U of I expand low-carbon energy future partnership

BOISE, Idaho — University of Idaho and Idaho National Laboratory are deepening collaborative research and development projects toward long-term viability of nuclear power, protecting national security and building a resilient and low-carbon energy future for Idaho and the nation.

U of I and INL signed a five-year Strategic Understanding for Premier Education and Research (SUPER) agreement this week, expanding more than 75 years of collaboration focused on advancing the safe, efficient and sustainable use of nuclear energy.

“U of I has a proud 80-year tradition of partnership with INL. This agreement and the work it will drive push the boundaries of science and engineering, while providing tangible and sustainable energy solutions for our state,” U of I President Scott Green said.

The SUPER agreement aims to direct new initiatives toward key areas that maximize the university’s unique capabilities in nuclear materials and fuel cycle engineering, nuclear integrated energy systems, and power systems and cybersecurity. 

“Advancing technology and support of sustainable, adaptable energy solutions, this new agreement strengthens U of I and INL’s position in Idaho and advances our pursuit of large-scale research centers to promote economic vitality,” said Suzie Long, dean of the U of I College of Engineering. “We are building nuclear energy’s role in a low-carbon future while improving grid stability and reducing environmental impact for our state and nation.”

INL and U of I are partners in the recent launch of the state and region’s first Energy Institute to address energy-related challenges in Idaho and beyond. A nexus for research, education and practical problem solving, the institute will increase energy literacy and grow a workforce prepared to transform the world’s energy future.

U of I and INL are also part of the Idaho Advanced Energy Consortium, leading the development of the Intermountain West Nuclear Energy Corridor (INEC). The EDA’s designation is part of a new economic development initiative, the Tech Hubs program, to bring funding to regions across the nation identified for their high potential to become epicenters for globally competitive innovation.

Initial funding of $500,000 and official EDA designation opens opportunity for up to $75 million in additional federal funding to the state to carry out the nuclear energy tech hub’s mission.

Funding will be used to implement INEC’s strategy and business plan focused on advanced nuclear reactor deployments, including technology advancements, workforce and supply chain development, and fuel support for the domestic nuclear industry.

Established in 1954 through a partnership with INL, U of I’s nuclear engineering program has long been at the forefront of innovation. U of I and INL researchers are advancing the development of efficient nuclear fuels, like molten salt, and refining fuel recycling techniques, including electrochemical and high-temperature processes. These efforts aim to improve nuclear waste management, enhance nuclear power safety and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.

INL is a leader in advanced nuclear energy, recognized for its contributions to Idaho’s first small modular reactor technology and microgrid development. Combined with U of I research, the SUPER agreement adds focus to optimizing grid performance, balancing supply and demand, and improving reliability. Continued research in thermal energy storage, microgrids and advanced reactors enhances system flexibility. 

With over 30 years of expertise, U of I leads in cybersecurity research, protecting critical infrastructure and power systems from cyber threats. Research advances cybersecurity frameworks, real-time monitoring, threat detection and secure communication protocols to enhance energy system resilience and safeguard power grids from disruptions in a digital, interconnected world.

MEDIA NOTE: Faculty experts are available for interview to discuss key agreement topics in nuclear materials and fuel cycle engineering, nuclear integrated energy systems, and power systems and cybersecurity. To schedule interviews, contact Alexiss Turner at alexisst@uidaho.edu.

Media contact

Jodi Walker
Executive Director of Communications
208-885-4295
jwalker@uidaho.edu