New report, hearings examine benefits of Ohio nuclear plants

A new study conducted by The Brattle Group for pro-nuclear coalition Nuclear Matters examined the benefits of Ohio’s two nuclear plants and was followed by hearing in the Ohio House of Representatives
on a proposed zero-emissions nuclear resource program.

The report found that Ohio’s Davis-Besse Nuclear Power Station and Perry Nuclear Power Plant contribute approximately $510 million to the state economy each year, reduce electricity prices by $177 million per year, pay $23 million in state and local taxes annually, and sustain 4,300 direct and secondary jobs.

Ohio’s nuclear energy industry will also prevent 9.3 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually over the next ten years, according to the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI), which is equal to taking nearly two million cars of Ohio’s roads.

“Nuclear power represents a key part of our ‘all of the above’ approach to electrical generation in the state of Ohio,” Matthew Szollosi, executive director of Affiliated Construction Trades Ohio, said. “Our goal is to help ensure these power plants remain viable for many years into the future.”

Shortly after the release of the report, the Ohio House Of Representatives held a hearing to discuss House Bill 178, which would create a zero-emissions nuclear resource program.

Nuclear Matters also held an information session recently at the Perry nuclear plant to encourage employees to become advocates and urge their elected representatives to support local nuclear plants.