Rockford Sun

State lawmakers in Illinois have taken a significant step towards ensuring a stronger and more reliable power supply for the state. House Bill 2473, which lifts the ban on the construction of new nuclear reactors, has been passed with overwhelming support in both the Senate and the House of Representatives.

The legislation specifically focuses on allowing the construction and development of next-generation Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) with a capacity of less than 300 MW. These advanced reactors are seen as a promising solution to meet the growing energy demands of the state. The bill also mandates the establishment of rules for reactor decommissioning, environmental monitoring, and emergency preparedness by Jan. 1, 2026, under the guidance of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Office of Homeland Security.

Speaking about the passage of House Bill 2473, Senator Dave Syverson highlighted the importance of this development for Illinois. He stated, "This legislation marks a crucial milestone in our efforts to create a more resilient and sustainable power supply for our state. By lifting the ban on next-generation nuclear reactors, we are paving the way for innovative technologies that can provide clean and reliable energy to meet our future needs."

In addition to lifting the moratorium, the bill also empowers the Governor to commission a new study to explore the state's role in guiding the development of new nuclear technology. This study will help Illinois stay at the forefront of nuclear innovation and ensure that it maximizes the benefits of these advancements.

The overwhelming support for House Bill 2473 reflects the recognition among lawmakers of the potential of nuclear energy to play a significant role in addressing Illinois' energy challenges. With a 44-7 vote in the Senate and a 98-8 vote in the House of Representatives, the bill has now been sent to the Governor's desk for consideration.

If signed into law, this legislation will not only allow the state to embrace advanced nuclear technology but also create new job opportunities and stimulate economic growth. The construction and operation of next-generation nuclear reactors will require a skilled workforce, providing employment opportunities and boosting the local economy.

The passage of House Bill 2473 is an important milestone for Illinois in its pursuit of a clean, reliable, and sustainable energy future. By ending the moratorium on new nuclear reactor construction, the state is taking a proactive approach to meet its energy needs while reducing carbon emissions. With the support of the Governor, Illinois has the potential to become a leader in the development and deployment of next-generation nuclear technology.

As the state moves forward with this legislation, collaboration between government agencies, industry stakeholders, and the public will be crucial. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency has been tasked with providing consultation to ensure that the construction and operation of next-generation nuclear reactors adhere to the highest standards of safety and environmental protection.

With House Bill 2473, Illinois is poised to embrace the next generation of nuclear reactors and chart a path towards a more sustainable energy future. The legislation represents a significant step forward in harnessing the potential of advanced nuclear technology and securing a reliable power supply for the state.

To find out more, go to this link: https://senatordavesyverson.com/2023/11/13/lawmakers-pass-bill-paving-way-for-next-generation-of-nuclear-reactors/