Centrus Energy Corp. is expanding its Oak Ridge facility in East Tennessee, transitioning to high-rate manufacturing for advanced centrifuges. According to Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, Deputy Gov. and Economic and Community Development Commissioner Stuart McWhorter, and Centrus CEO Amir Vexler, the $560 million investment is expected to create nearly 430 new jobs in Anderson County over the coming years.
The expansion aims to support U.S. commercial and national security uranium enrichment needs. The new centrifuges, expected to be operational in Ohio by 2029, are part of this effort. Centrus, the only uranium enrichment centrifuge manufacturer in the U.S., received funding from the Department of Energy to supply Tennessee-made centrifuges for the Ohio project. The initiative is also backed by the Tennessee Nuclear Energy Fund, included in Gov. Lee’s 2023–2024 budget and approved by the General Assembly, which has committed $70 million since the fund’s creation.
According to the Tennessee government, Gov. Lee praised the expansion, saying, “Companies nationwide recognize that Tennessee is the nation’s epicenter for new nuclear, and I am grateful for Centrus’ continued investment in the Volunteer State. These 400 new jobs will create greater opportunity for Tennesseans and advance our state’s position as a leader in energy independence.” Amir Vexler, in an interview with Tennessee's government site, expressed pride in leading the effort to restore America's uranium enrichment capabilities using American technology and workforce, and acknowledged the strong support of federal, state, and local leaders.
Regional leaders also welcomed Centrus’ expansion. Anderson County Mayor Terry Frank said it highlights the area’s stability and business advantages. Oak Ridge Mayor Warren Gooch noted the integration of advanced technology and new jobs as signs of renewed American nuclear energy leadership. According to the Tennessee government, Lt. Gov. Randy McNally added that Centrus strengthens Tennessee’s high-tech manufacturing sector and economy while helping “power America’s future.”
