The US Energy Department has awarded $40 million to Westinghouse Electric Co. and San Diego-based General Atomics. Each of the firm will receive $20 million each.

According to the Energy Department, this award will help these organizations to develop the next generation nuclear power reactor. The prize will definitely enhance firm's conceptual design and planning work for the advance reactor.

Westinghouse Electric Co. belongs to Toshiba Corporation while General Atomics is a privately held firm.