Louisiana lawmakers are working to quicken the permitting process to allow small nuclear reactors to be added to the state’s portfolio of energy production, Louisiana Illuminator reports.
Although the technology is currently not used in the U.S., supporters say it’s a low-emissions option to provide electricity in areas that struggle to get reliable power.
Energy analysts say prohibitive costs are a reason small modular reactors are not more commonly used.
Senate Bill 127, by Sen. Adam Bass, R-Bossier City, would allow the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality to create an expedited environmental permitting process for building small modular reactors, which would position the state to be ready when the federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission allows the projects to move forward.
The bill has advanced out of the Senate Committee on Environmental Quality and heads next to the full Senate.
“You have companies in states like Texas that are starting that process,” LDEQ Secretary Aurelia Skipwith Giacometto said Tuesday at the state Capitol after the Senate committee hearing on Bass’ bill.
Read the full story. And read a 10/12 Industry Report story about how Louisiana is exploring advanced nuclear as industry needs soar.
