Key Impact Points:
- Nuclear energy is 50 million times more energy dense than natural gas or coal, generating significantly less waste.
- Advanced nuclear technologies can make clean energy more competitive, widespread, and sustainable.
- Nuclear power has the fewest deaths per MW, positioning it as one of the safest energy sources available.
A New Nuclear Vision
Jacob DeWitte, co-founder and CEO of Oklo Inc., firmly positions nuclear energy as the definitive long-term solution to global energy challenges. Founded in 2013, Oklo develops innovative small nuclear reactors aimed at delivering cheap, clean, and abundant power.
According to DeWitte, nuclear power vastly outperforms traditional fossil fuels:
“It is 50 million times more energy dense per reaction than natural gas or coal meaning 50 million times less waste.”
Advancing Nuclear Technology
Recognized on Forbes’ prestigious “30 Under 30” list, Jacob DeWitte brings nearly 15 years of nuclear industry experience, spanning roles at GE, Sandia National Labs, Urenco US, and naval reactor research laboratories.
At GE, he led core design for the PRISM sodium fast reactor, and at Sandia, contributed to developing fast test reactor irradiation facilities.
His ongoing efforts focus on optimizing the existing nuclear fleet and advancing technologies to boost nuclear power’s global competitiveness and adoption.
Jacob DeWitte emphasizes the safety and sustainability of nuclear energy, asserting:
“It is sustainable with fuel supplies that can easily power us for thousands to millions of years. It is clean and emission-free, is always on, and one of the safest industries in US history!”
Expert Leadership
Based in Sunnyvale, CA, Oklo under Jacob DeWitte’s leadership is leveraging advanced reactor designs including sodium fast reactors, molten salt reactors, and next-generation pressurized water reactors (PWRs).
A graduate of the University of Florida and MIT, where he earned his SM and PhD, DeWitte’s research has strategically shaped high-performance reactor fuel adoption.
His ultimate goal is clear:
“I am working on developing technologies to make the most of our incredible nuclear fleet, and advanced nuclear technologies that can make nuclear more competitive, available, and widespread than ever before.”
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