The U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Environmental Management is seeking industry input on the beneficial reuse of up to 530,000 gallons of heavy water currently stored at the Savannah River Site in South Carolina.
Office of Environmental Management
July 22, 2026
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Effort leverages Savannah River Site’s heavy water inventory to advance American energy initiatives
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Environmental Management (EM) is seeking industry input on the beneficial reuse of up to 530,000 gallons of heavy water currently stored at the Savannah River Site (SRS) in South Carolina.
In support of President Trump’s commitment to American energy dominance and unlocking the value stored in domestic resources, EM is issuing a request for information (RFI) seeking industry input on the beneficial reuse of heavy water stored onsite. The heavy water inventory was previously used as a moderator in tritium and plutonium production reactors.
“The heavy water inventory at Savannah River Site represents a significant strategic national asset,” EM Assistant Secretary Tim Walsh said. “This RFI is an important step toward identifying industry partners who can help maximize the value of this resource in support of American energy security.”
Heavy water has unique properties making it indispensable for advanced nuclear applications, cutting-edge research and the production of life-saving medical isotopes. This RFI is a critical step towards maximizing the value of this strategic resource by identifying pathways for its domestic processing, purification and repurposing. The RFI invites input from a broad range of stakeholders, including industry with demonstrated needs and expertise in heavy water processing and entities interested in exploring the development of new facilities or leasing land directly at the SRS. This collaborative approach aims to foster innovation that will underscore America's leadership in nuclear technology.
Responses to the RFI are requested no later than Sept. 21, 2026. Interested parties can learn more here
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