Measure promotes nuclear viability, safety

Sens. Chris Coons (D-DE) and Martha McSally (R- AZ) are considering legislation proposing efforts to focus upon the sustainability, safety, and viability of nuclear power.

The Nuclear Energy Renewal Act would facilitate improvements in nuclear materials and technologies, bolster the economic competitiveness of domestic nuclear power, and support the commercialization of advanced nuclear reactors.

“Climate change poses an existential threat to our economy, our environment, and our national security,” Coons said. “To address this threat, we need an innovative strategy to reduce emissions and enhance our ability to generate clean and consistent power. In 2017, the U.S. nuclear power fleet produced enough emissions-free energy to prevent the release of 547 million metric tons of CO2 into our atmosphere. I’m proud this legislation will allow the Department of Energy to provide nuclear power plants with the requisite tools and research to increase their cost-competitiveness and develop the new technologies they require to operate efficiently.”

McSally said if the nation is serious about reducing carbon emissions, it needs to get serious about nuclear energy.

“Arizona’s Palo Verde nuclear plant is the largest in the United States and delivers a substantial amount of carbon-free energy to Americans across the region,” she said. “A combination of fuels—including nuclear, renewable, and fossil—will ensure the U.S. can continue to lead the world in a true all-of-the-above energy strategy.”