Committee introduces nuclear R&D bill

U.S. Rep. Randy Weber (R-TX) recently introduced the Nuclear Energy Innovation Capabilities Act (H.R. 431), along with U.S. House Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chairman Lamar Smith (R-TX) and Ranking Member Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX).

Under the legislation, the Department of Energy (DOE) would prioritize research and development (R&D) infrastructure, which would support private sector investment in advanced reactor technologies and prototype development at DOE labs.

“This legislation provides a path forward to ensure that the Department of Energy prioritizes research, development, and demonstration activities that can impact electricity generation, national security, and even space exploration,” Smith said.

The legislation would also allow private companies to partner with national labs and require DOE to produce a 10-year plan for prioritizing nuclear R&D programs.

Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID) also recently introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

“Nuclear energy is an underutilized source of safe, reliable and clean energy,” said Senator Crapo. “With strong, bipartisan support, we can eliminate barriers to innovation and increase the role it plays in our domestic energy portfolio.  I support the efforts of the House Science Committee to find ways to bring together our national labs and private sector in order to continue to drive the nuclear industry forward.”