What you need to know
The Texas Advanced Nuclear Reactor Working Group released a report Nov. 18 with recommendations for the upcoming 89th Legislature as the state works to develop a nuclear power industry. The recommendations aim to enhance electric reliability, promote economic development and grow the state’s workforce, according to a Nov. 18 news release.
Nuclear power is considered clean, carbon-free energy and provides firm power, low-land use, consistent cost structure and provides more than two times onsite jobs per gigawatt produced, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
“Texas has long been the energy capital of the world, and today we have an incredible opportunity to build a world-leading advanced nuclear industry that will deliver safe, reliable power for generations to come,” Jimmy Glotfelty, commissioner for the Public Utility Commission of Texas, said in the release. “The economic and policy recommendations we’ve outlined will inspire swift action and help Texas become the leader in advanced nuclear energy.”
The group was commissioned by Abbott in August 2023, according to the release. It is composed of 17 members from universities and energy industry officials, such as the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, Entergy Texas and Last Energy, among others.
The details
The report suggests creating agencies and organizations as well as appointing individuals to grow the state’s nuclear energy experience. The seven main recommendations include:
- Creating a Texas Advanced Nuclear Energy Authority, a non-regulatory agency to coordinate the state’s nuclear mission and manage nuclear funds and programs
- Hiring a Texas nuclear permitting officer to serve as a point of contact for developers and businesses
- Creating a workforce development program for community colleges and universities
- Building the Texas Advanced Manufacturing Institute, aimed at developing and fostering a state nuclear ecosystem
- Launching a Texas nuclear public outreach program, a public engagement plan to educate residents about the benefits of nuclear power
- Creating a cost-sharing grant for a Texas nuclear energy and supply chain fund to incentive early nuclear development
- Allocating money for a Texas nuclear energy fund, which would be modeled after the existing Texas Energy Fund
Zooming out
The U.S. has nearly 500 nuclear power reactors, which provide over 20% of the nation's power and as the leading energy-producing state, Texas is looking to lead the nuclear industry growth in the nation, according to the report.
Quote of note
“Texas is the energy capital of the world, and we are ready to be No. 1 in advanced nuclear power. By utilizing advanced nuclear energy, Texas will enhance the reliability of the state grid and provide affordable, dispatchable power to Texans across the state,” Abbott said in the release. “As we build an advanced nuclear industry in our great state, we will ensure Texas remains a leader in energy and strengthen the Texas grid to meet the demands of our growing state.”
Looking ahead
The 89th legislative session is set to begin Jan. 14 and will conclude June 2.
