Breaking Dependence: The Push to Ban Russian Uranium Imports in the US
A key facet of this House bill is its inclusion of waivers that would allow for the import of low-enriched uranium from Russia, contingent on the determination of the U.S. energy secretary that no alternative sources are available
Progress is being made within the U.S. House of Representatives regarding a bill aimed at prohibiting the import of Russian uranium into the United States. This legislative proposal, known as the Prohibiting Russian Uranium Imports Act (H.R.1042), was introduced in March 2023 and has earned approval from a subcommittee within the House. If enacted, this bill would initiate the ban on Russian uranium imports after a period of 90 days. Notably, the legislation successfully advanced through a House committee in May 2023.
The bill seeks to halt the import of enriched uranium produced in Russia within 90 days of its implementation. A key facet of this House bill is its inclusion of waivers that would allow for the import of low-enriched uranium from Russia, contingent on the determination of the U.S. energy secretary that no alternative sources are available. However, for this legislation to become law, it must secure approval from both chambers of Congress and receive the signature of President Joe Biden. As a result, the precise timeline for the implementation of the bill remains uncertain, contingent upon these necessary legislative steps.
While the United States has not broadly imposed sanctions on uranium imports, the focus has shifted towards discussions and measures concerning the prohibition of unirradiated low-enriched uranium imports originating from Russia. According to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Russia accounted for approximately 14% of the United States' uranium imports in 2021. In comparison, Kazakhstan and Canada contributed 35% and 15% respectively to the U.S. uranium supply during the same period.
Uranium in future energy sanctions
A notable trade organization, the National Energy Institute (NEI), representing major U.S. nuclear power generation companies including Duke Energy Corp and Exelon Corp, has been actively lobbying for the maintenance of exemptions on uranium imports from Russia. This lobbying effort by the NEI is aimed at averting any potential entanglement of uranium imports in future energy-related sanctions. This is especially pertinent as calls for sanctions on Russian crude oil sales gain momentum. While the United States has refrained from imposing sanctions on the broad import of uranium, discussions and legislative actions related to prohibiting the import of unirradiated low-enriched uranium produced in Russia are indeed ongoing.
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Russia wields the world's most extensive uranium enrichment capabilities, constituting nearly half of the global capacity. Intriguingly, a significant portion of the uranium Russia exports is procured from Kazakhstan, after which it is channeled to Europe and the United States via Russia. While the bill to prohibit Russian uranium imports into the United States has made substantial headway, it has yet to be enacted into law. Thus, the current 14% share of Russian uranium imports in the U.S. energy sector remains in flux, subject to the outcome of the legislative process and other influencing factors.
The U.S. government has embarked on a series of measures to address its dependence on Russian uranium imports. Some of these initiatives include:
Exploring Stockpile Utilization: The U.S. government is investigating the use of its stockpile of weapons-grade uranium to fuel new advanced reactors. This strategic move is seen as pivotal in advancing the industry, aligning with global net-zero emissions targets. Currently, a thorough evaluation is underway to determine the allocation of the U.S.'s inventory of 585.6 tonnes of highly enriched uranium to reactor deployment.
Legislative action to ban Russian uranium exports
Legislative Action: The Prohibiting Russian Uranium Imports Act (H.R.1042), introduced in March 2023, serves as a response to the issue. This legislation seeks to bar the import of unirradiated low-enriched uranium from the Russian Federation. The bill has gained momentum through its passage in a House committee in May 2023. It intends to cease imports of enriched uranium from Russia within a 90-day period post-enactment. The bill carries provisions for waivers, allowing the import of low-enriched uranium from Russia, subject to the assessment of the U.S. energy secretary regarding the availability of alternative sources. A parallel bill addressing this matter has been directed to the energy committee in the U.S. Senate.
In light of potential sanctions on Rosatom, U.S. companies are contemplating alternative avenues, such as the export of uranium from Kazakhstan via China. However, this option is not without challenges, especially given the ongoing trade tensions between nations.
As a response to the issue of reliance on Russian uranium imports, the U.S. government is orchestrating a series of measures, ranging from legislative actions to strategic explorations of alternative uranium sources. These endeavors are aimed at safeguarding the country's uranium supply and security.