Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC (Idaho National Lab)

As one of 17 national labs in the U.S. Department of Energy complex, Idaho National Laboratory is home to more than 6,400 researchers and support staff focused on innovations in nuclear research, integrated energy systems and security solutions that are changing the world.

From discoveries in advanced nuclear energy to reliable energy options and to protecting our nation’s most critical infrastructure assets, our talented team at INL is constantly pushing the limits to redefine what’s possible.

As the nation’s nuclear energy laboratory, Idaho National Laboratory’s (INL) unique nuclear infrastructure and facilities, expertise and capabilities are not just valuable, but essential to America’s energy future. The nuclear energy future we have long envisioned is no longer a distant possibility and we are partnering with institutions across the country to make it a reality. The path to energy dominance runs through Idaho. Together, we will power America’s next chapter.

Our capabilities involve: testing advanced nuclear energy concepts, preparing radioisotope power sources for NASA space exploration, developing longer-lived electric vehicle batteries, protecting the power grid and collaborating with numerous industries to turn waste into fuel.

INL experts are studying basic material properties that will lead to more robust nuclear fuels and materials that can survive in harsh environments. We conduct testing and demonstration for electric grid systems and other critical infrastructure including clean water delivery. Our unparalleled cybersecurity experts monitor real-world incidents, provide training around the globe and conduct basic research for the security of everything from vehicle charging stations to nuclear materials. INL’s research also includes work in bioenergy, geothermal energy, hydrogen production and industrial process science.

INL operates the world’s premier materials test reactor – the Advanced Test Reactor – which also is one of only two reactors in the nation producing life-saving medical radioisotopes.

Our Legacy

INL has provided more than 75 years of scientific innovation. Fifty-two reactors have been built and operated on INL’s 890-square-mile site since 1949. The lab’s contributions to the nuclear energy industry are unparalleled, including:

The first usable electricity generated by nuclear power

The first city powered by atomic energy

The first nuclear propulsion systems for Navy submarines and aircraft carriers

More than 300 commercial nuclear power reactors operating around the world trace their roots to INL. This legacy grows daily as INL scientists and engineers advance nuclear energy technology, including small modular reactors, microreactors and much more.