Best ways to get exposure to nuclear energy tech

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As governments and corporations push toward low-carbon energy solutions, nuclear power is gaining renewed momentum. Advanced nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs), next-generation fuels, and nuclear fusion research, are attracting investor attention. For those seeking exposure to nuclear energy tech, several investment approaches exist — from direct equity in nuclear-focused companies to diversified ETFs and enabling technologies.

Why invest in nuclear energy tech?

  • Decarbonization: Nuclear provides baseload, carbon-free electricity critical to net-zero goals.
  • Energy security: Countries are seeking domestic, reliable power sources as geopolitical risks affect fossil fuel markets.
  • Next-gen reactors: SMRs and Gen IV designs promise safer, cheaper, and more scalable nuclear solutions.
  • Innovation capital: Billions are flowing into nuclear startups, fuel cycle upgrades, and fusion development.
  • Government support: Major policy backing in the U.S., Europe, South Korea, and Japan is reviving public and private investment.

Best ways to gain exposure to nuclear energy tech

1. Publicly traded nuclear companies

BWX Technologies (NYSE: BWXT)

  • Focus: Advanced nuclear components, SMRs, and fuel for U.S. Navy submarines and aircraft carriers
  • Relevance: Leader in modular reactor development and nuclear fuel processing
  • Position: Strong defense contracts and early mover in U.S. civilian SMR deployment

Cameco Corporation (NYSE: CCJ)

  • Focus: Uranium mining and nuclear fuel supply
  • Exposure: Direct supplier to nuclear power plants worldwide
  • Strategic edge: Partnering with Brookfield to acquire Westinghouse Electric — expanding into reactor services and technology

Fluor Corporation (NYSE: FLR)

  • Subsidiary: Majority owner of NuScale Power (SMR developer)
  • Value proposition: Engineering and construction firm with nuclear infrastructure capabilities
  • Catalyst: Involved in early-stage SMR deployment in the U.S. and international markets

NuScale Power Corporation (NYSE: SMR)

  • Focus: Developer of modular nuclear reactors
  • Milestones: First SMR design certified by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC)
  • Potential: Targeting utility-scale deployments in the U.S., Eastern Europe, and Asia

2. Nuclear energy ETFs

Global X Uranium ETF (URA)

  • Holdings: Includes uranium miners, fuel suppliers, and nuclear service companies
  • Exposure: Cameco, Kazatomprom, BWXT, and other supply chain players
  • Why it fits: Offers diversified access to the nuclear ecosystem, with emphasis on uranium production

VanEck Uranium+Nuclear Energy ETF (NLR)

  • Focus: Broader nuclear energy exposure beyond just uranium mining
  • Holdings: Utilities operating nuclear plants, fuel suppliers, and technology providers
  • Benefit: Balanced risk profile between production, operation, and innovation

3. Private market and venture exposure (via indirect public routes)

Some nuclear tech is still in early stages and privately held. However, indirect exposure is possible through partnerships or parent companies.

Bill Gates–backed TerraPower

  • Focus: Developing sodium-cooled fast reactors
  • Public tie-in: Collaborates with BWXT and government agencies; may seek public funding or IPO in the future

Helion Energy / Commonwealth Fusion Systems

  • Sector: Nuclear fusion
  • Access: Not public, but strategic investors include Alphabet, Microsoft, and venture arms of public corporations
  • Outlook: Investors can gain limited exposure through funds or holding companies with early stakes

4. Utilities and conglomerates with nuclear arms

EDF (Électricité de France – EPA: EDF)

  • Focus: Major operator of nuclear power plants in Europe
  • Opportunity: Leading nuclear build-outs in France, UK, and potentially Eastern Europe

Korea Electric Power Corporation (NYSE: KEP)

  • Exposure: South Korea’s national utility with extensive nuclear operations and export projects
  • Global reach: Involved in international nuclear plant construction in the Middle East and Asia

Toshiba and Hitachi (TSE: 6502, 6501)

  • Background: Engineering conglomerates with nuclear reactor design and maintenance divisions
  • Projects: Involved in SMRs and advanced BWR designs

What about nuclear fusion?

Fusion remains pre-commercial but is accelerating:

  • Investors may gain early exposure through venture capital funds or strategic investments made by public companies like Alphabet or Chevron
  • Watch for IPOs or SPAC deals involving fusion companies like Helion, General Fusion, or Tokamak Energy in coming years

Key risks to consider

  • Regulatory delays: Nuclear projects often face long permitting timelines and changing safety requirements
  • Public sentiment: Local and national opposition to new plants or uranium mining can impact timelines
  • High capital costs: Even modular and advanced designs require significant upfront investment
  • Technology risk: Many next-gen designs are still under testing and not yet commercially proven

Investors seeking long-term exposure to nuclear energy tech should consider a diversified approach that includes fuel suppliers, modular reactor developers, and nuclear-focused ETFs. The sector’s momentum in 2025 is supported by policy, innovation, and global energy needs.

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