PADUCAH, Ky. (Mar. 26, 2026) — Global Laser Enrichment (GLE) is making the largest capital investment in Western Kentucky history, announcing plans to develop the Paducah Laser Enrichment Facility (PLEF), a $1.76 billion project expected to create 240 high-wage jobs in McCracken County.
The project represents a major milestone for Kentucky’s growing energy and advanced manufacturing sectors, further positioning the state as a national leader in nuclear energy innovation.
“This is a game-changing investment for Western Kentucky and our entire commonwealth,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “This project solidifies our role as a leader in the country’s nuclear power sector and will transform our economy, creating opportunities for Kentucky families for generations.”
The 665-acre site is strategically located adjacent to the U.S. Department of Energy’s former Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant. The proposed facility is currently under review by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and once licensed, is expected to re-enrich more than 200,000 metric tons of high-assay depleted uranium under a longstanding agreement with the U.S. Department of Energy. The project will support federal cleanup efforts, reduce long-term costs and provide a critical domestic source of nuclear fuel.
GLE CEO Stephen Long emphasized the broader national significance of the investment, noting the project supports the development of a resilient domestic nuclear fuel supply chain. “Paducah was once the hub of the U.S. nuclear fuel cycle, and GLE is proud to reassert Kentucky’s leadership with the world’s most advanced uranium enrichment technology,” Long said.
Founded in 2007, GLE is advancing next-generation uranium enrichment technologies, with ongoing operations at its pilot facility in Wilmington, North Carolina. The company has invested more than $550 million in engineering, design and development efforts across multiple states and was recently selected for a U.S. Department of Energy award of up to $28.5 million to support continued progress.
Local leaders highlighted the project’s long-term economic and strategic impact. McCracken County Judge/Executive Craig Clymer noted the investment will generate hundreds of skilled, high-paying jobs while strengthening the region’s tax base and positioning the county as a key player in the nuclear fuel supply chain.
Paducah Mayor George Bray added that the project builds on the community’s long-standing role in uranium enrichment. “We are now in exciting times as uranium enrichment enters the next stage of development,” Bray said, emphasizing the opportunity to support the nation’s growing energy demands.
Bruce Wilcox, president and CEO of Greater Paducah Economic Development, said the project not only honors the region’s legacy but secures its future. “GLE’s next-generation enrichment facility will preserve Paducah’s identity as a critical energy hub while aligning with national priorities to strengthen domestic fuel security,” he said.
With federal support and regulatory review underway, the Paducah Laser Enrichment Facility is poised to become a cornerstone project for Kentucky’s energy economy—advancing innovation, strengthening national security and delivering long-term economic growth for the region.
