The US Department of Energy (DOE) has awarded grants worth nearly $67 million (£40.4m) for nuclear energy research and development projects.

A total of 83 projects were selected from across the country based on their potential to create “scientific breakthroughs” that help strengthen the nation’s energy security and cut greenhouse gas emissions.

The announcement builds on President Barack Obama’s Climate Action Plan and his Administration’s efforts to expand innovation in clean energy.

US Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz said: “These awards not only provide crucial funding for research and development but also for the training and education of the next generation nuclear energy workforce that will enhance American leadership in the safe, secure and efficient use of nuclear energy here and around the world.”

The DOE has so far awarded around $350 million (£211m) to 98 colleges and universities for nuclear energy in the US so far.