NuScale Power vs. BWX Technologies: Which Nuclear Energy Stock Belongs in Your Portfolio?

Nuclear energy is enjoying a resurgence as countries face growing power demand and a need for energy security while seeking cleaner sources. According to Bank of America research, U.S. electrical demand could grow at 2.5% annually over the next decade, or five times faster than in the previous decade.

As energy demand grows, nuclear stocks have come into focus. Two nuclear energy stocks that serve different roles in the industry are NuScale Power (NYSE: SMR) and BWX Technologies (NYSE: BWXT), but one stands out as a better investment right now.

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NuScale's Power Modules reimagine nuclear energy deployment

NuScale Power aims to reimagine nuclear energy deployment with its small modular reactor (SMR) technology. The company's NuScale Power Module is a water reactor that combines the reactor, steam generator, and pressurizer into a single, factory-built unit. Each module produces 77 megawatt electric (MWe) of electricity and can be deployed in up to 12 clusters, providing a combined output of 924 MWe.

NuScale is in its early stages, and it will be years before its Power Modules are deployed on a commercial scale. On Feb. 12, the Romanian government and Nuclearelectrica shareholders approved a final investment decision for the company's RoPower project, allowing it to secure financing and proceed with pre-EPC (engineering, procurement, and construction) activities. The new facility wouldn't be operational until at least July 2033, a delay from the original 2030 timeline.

Beyond this, NuScale is looking to secure more contracts to scale up commercially. The company has partnered with ENTRA1 Energy, which will help finance and develop plants powered by NuScale's technology and accelerate commercialization. However, the partnership has faced scrutiny for its milestone payments, and class action lawsuits filed in 2026 allege NuScale misled investors regarding ENTRA1's actual experience and operational capabilities.

BWX Technologies is a trusted partner for the U.S. government

BWX Technologies manufactures specialized equipment and fuel for nuclear energy and nuclear medicine. The company's subsidiary, Nuclear Fuel Services, is the sole provider of nuclear fuel for the U.S. Navy. What makes BWX compelling is its key role as a government provider, making it a national security asset across critical defense categories.

It is the sole manufacturer of nuclear reactors and fuel for the U.S. Navy's submarine and aircraft carrier fleets, and government operations are a major part of its business. In 2025, this segment accounted for $2.35 billion of its $3.2 billion in revenue. During the year, it also secured $2.6 billion in new contracts for Virginia- and Columbia-class submarine components.

This stock stands out as a better buy right now

NuScale Power is an up-and-coming nuclear technology company poised to revolutionize nuclear power deployment. However, the company has its work cut out for it to scale up and commercialize its product, and its first power plants won't be operational until the 2030s.

BWX Technologies is positioned as a partner of the U.S. government, with defense contracts that provide it with a steady stream of long-term revenue. Last year, the company's backlog grew 50% to $7.3 billion, showing robust demand for its services and providing visibility into future earnings. For these reasons, BWX Technologies is a better investment today.

Bank of America is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Courtney Carlsen has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends BWX Technologies. The Motley Fool recommends NuScale Power. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.