The National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC), in collaboration with the National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO), has unveiled a significant report titled Energy and Industrial Use Cases for Advanced Nuclear Reactors. This document explores innovative applications for advanced nuclear energy, providing vital insights for state utility regulators and energy offices.
NARUC emphasizes the growing importance of advanced nuclear energy in state energy strategies, predicting substantial project growth over the next decade. Public utility commissions and state energy offices are crucial in facilitating the development and integration of these initiatives.
“Advanced nuclear technology is poised to be a transformative force in our energy landscape,” said Nick Myers, commissioner of the Arizona Corporation Commission and vice chair of the NARUC Subcommittee on Nuclear Issues-Waste Disposal. “This report serves as a timely resource as we investigate how these reactors can generate electricity and support various industrial applications. By analyzing potential use cases, the report equips state officials with the knowledge to integrate advanced nuclear energy into broader energy strategies.”
Despite being a newer energy production method, several states are proactively preparing for advanced reactors by drafting reports and establishing working groups focused on state-level considerations for advanced reactor technology. These preliminary plans highlight the importance of understanding advanced nuclear applications within the power sector and exploring state-specific opportunities.
Danielle Sass Byrnett, senior director of the NARUC Center for Partnerships & Innovation, stated, “This report outlines the key attributes that could make advanced reactors appealing for various use cases beyond conventional electricity generation. These attributes include safety profiles, high-temperature production capabilities, flexible output, modular construction, and enhanced ramping and black start capabilities.” NARUC has identified ten potential use cases that states can consider to incorporate advanced nuclear energy into their energy portfolios.
The report was developed under the NARUC-NASEO Advanced Nuclear State Collaborative, supported by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)-NARUC Nuclear Energy Partnership.
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) defines non-light water reactor designs as “advanced reactors,” which incorporate different technologies from existing reactors, such as passive safety features and alternative fuels or coolants, often in smaller designs.
Currently, there are over three dozen working designs for small modular reactors and microreactors, with some aiming for commercial operation by 2030. Proponents argue that these smaller reactors offer shorter build times and reduced costs, though this potential remains to be fully validated.
The U.S. continues to lead globally in nuclear energy output, yet it may lag up to 15 years behind China in deploying next-generation reactors, according to the Information Technology & Innovation Foundation (ITIF), a nonpartisan research institute.
In May, the White House announced new measures to support nuclear power plant development, including forming a “Power Project Management and Delivery working group” to identify cost and schedule mitigation strategies.
In June, the U.S. Senate passed legislation designed to accelerate advanced nuclear deployments, following similar action by the House in May. The Accelerating Deployment of Versatile, Advanced Nuclear for Clean Energy Act of 2024 (ADVANCE Act) aims to expedite permitting and create incentives for building advanced reactors. The legislation directs the NRC to enhance its licensing processes for new nuclear technologies and reduce regulatory costs for companies. President Joe Biden has signed this legislation into law, marking a significant step forward for the advanced nuclear sector.
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