Illinois commissioner named to NARUC’s Nuclear Energy Partnership

Michael Carrigan, the commissioner of the Illinois Commerce Commission, will participate in the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners Nuclear Energy Partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Nuclear Energy.

This five-year partnership will enable state public service commissioners and commission staff to explore issues related to zero-carbon nuclear power. According to the Nuclear Energy Institute, Illinois has 11 nuclear power reactors, the most in the nation, producing 88 percent of the state’s carbon-free electricity.

“Nuclear energy will certainly play an important role in helping states like Illinois achieve their zero carbon emission goals. As a member of this partnership, I look forward to forging new relationships and exchanging ideas with my peers from across the nation as we explore the issues surrounding the retention of the existing fleet of nuclear reactors, the possibilities of advanced nuclear technology, and formulating a cleaner, reliable, and affordable energy mix heading into the future,” Carrigan said.

The Nuclear Energy Partnership will include commissioners and staff from 18 states and territories across the country. The participants will engage in stakeholder dialogue, peer sharing calls, site visits, educational webinars, and briefing papers for NARUC’s state members.

“Commissioner Carrigan brings with him vast experience and knowledge working in the Nuclear Energy space. He will add great insight to the Partnership,” ICC Chairman Carrie Zalewski said.