NRC Approves Oklo Aurora Reactor Design Criteria

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission approved Oklo Inc.'s Principal Design Criteria topical report for its Aurora powerhouse reactor under construction at Idaho National Laboratory, a key regulatory milestone that streamlines future licensing applications. The approval, announced Wednesday, prompted Oklo shares to surge more than 13 percent intraday, closing near 78.45 after peaking at 79.03.

The Principal Design Criteria outlines baseline safety, reliability, and performance standards for the Aurora, allowing the document to be referenced in subsequent filings without redundant reviews. Oklo stated the NRC completed the review in less than half the typical time, reflecting streamlined processes under executive orders issued in May 2025 and the ADVANCE Act, which aim to accelerate advanced nuclear deployments. "This demonstrates strong work by the Oklo team and timely engagement by the regulator," CEO Jacob DeWitte said. He added that performance-based licensing and efficient reviews are essential for advancing modern nuclear projects safely.

Oklo, a Santa Clara, California-based developer of fast-fission power plants, plans to build, own, and operate the facilities while...