Illinois Lifts Ban on New Nuclear Reactors, Focusing on Small Modular Reactors
Illinois, known for hosting the world's first nuclear reactor, has recently reversed its 36-year-long prohibition on the construction of new nuclear reactors. The decision, supported by both Democrats and Republicans, aims to expand the use of nuclear power, which currently contributes over 50% to the state's energy production.
The new legislation permits the development of small modular reactors (SMRs), limiting their electrical output to 300 megawatts. This move excludes large-scale nuclear reactors, like the ones currently constituting Illinois' nuclear fleet. Advocates argue that SMRs, although untested and requiring years for construction, offer advantages such as lower costs through factory-scale production and a faster implementation timeline.
The legislation comes at a time when Illinois is shutting down coal-burning plants to achieve its 2045 climate goal of transitioning away from fossil fuels. State Senator Sue Rezin, the bill's lead co-sponsor, sees SMRs as a potential economic boost, providing employment opportunities for a skilled workforce formerly engaged in the coal industry.
Opponents, such as Abe Scarr from the Illinois Public Interest Group, express skepticism about the feasibility of SMRs, considering them a speculative technology. The recent cancellation of NuScale Power Corporation's SMR project due to financial issues raises concerns about the viability of this approach.
Despite varying opinions, the U.S. Department of Energy is increasingly considering nuclear power, particularly SMRs, as a crucial element in achieving a net-zero emissions target by 2050. However, public sentiment towards nuclear power remains mixed, influenced by historical events like the Three Mile Island incident in 1979.
Illinois is set to join other states like Wisconsin, Kentucky, Montana, and West Virginia in reversing nuclear construction bans. The legislation, expected to take effect in 2026, may take six to ten years to secure the necessary permits for new reactor construction, according to State Senator Rezin.
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