Exelon chief nuclear officer highlights importance of state policies
Exelon Generation’s Chief Nuclear Officer Bryan Hanson highlighted the need for power generators to advocate for state policy reforms, as well as adapt and innovate, at his recent keynote speech at the 19th annual ELECTRIC POWER Conference in Chicago.
“In the absence of coordinated federal policy, states have an important role to play, as New York and Illinois have demonstrated,” Hanson said. “Sensible state energy policies can unleash investment, accelerate job growth and create an environment for innovation to thrive. Preserving our financially challenged nuclear plants is essential if we are to meet our nation’s clean energy goals and maintain a reliable electric grid.”
Hanson described Exelon’s support of a clean energy standard in New York and legislation in Illinois that together are expected to preserve nuclear jobs, preserve billions of dollars in annual economic activity and enhance energy efficiency programs. Other states, including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Ohio and Connecticut, are considering exploring similar programs.
Hanson also noted that Exelon recently identified over $160 million in operational efficiencies and works to build a culture of innovation within the company.
“Efficiency improvements and new technologies are making our facilities safer, cleaner and more effective, but operating our nuclear units safely and reliably isn’t enough anymore,” Hanson said. “We have to adapt, innovate and advocate for the value of our people and our plants.”
