Rep. Curtis boosts development of advanced nuclear technology – Deseret News

The House recently made a significant move in the realm of nuclear energy by passing the Advanced Nuclear Reactor Prize Act, a bill introduced by Rep. John Curtis of Utah. This act authorizes the U.S. Secretary of Energy to award grants that cover fees assessed by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, aiming to streamline the permitting process for advanced nuclear technologies.

Curtis emphasized the need for innovation in the nuclear space to ensure affordable, reliable, and clean energy for the future. The bill would incentivize innovation by providing targeted awards to cover fees for the first technologies licensed and operational in five unique categories, ultimately making it more affordable for groundbreaking technology to navigate the licensing process.

The expansion of nuclear energy in the U.S. would not only support the country’s energy needs but also benefit Utah’s uranium industry. With Russia currently controlling a significant portion of the uranium supply chain, the bill aims to bolster domestic mining of uranium by banning imports into the U.S.

The Advanced Nuclear Reactor Prize Act could have a significant impact on projects like the Carbon Free Power Project by the Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems, which faced financial burdens during the NRC licensing process. The bill’s passage through the House and Congress signals a bipartisan effort to support nuclear innovation and overcome regulatory barriers in the energy sector.

With the bill now awaiting President Joe Biden’s signature, the future of nuclear energy in the U.S. looks promising as efforts to foster innovation and affordability in the sector continue to gain momentum.