Texas Advanced Nuclear Reactor Working Group calls for 7 Key Legislative Recommendations to position Texas as a Global Leader
Texas Insider Report: AUSTIN, Texas – After Gov. Greg Abbott recently called for a renewed focus on nuclear power in Texas as part of a broader strategy to position the Lone Star State as a leader in advanced nuclear technology and to further enhance the state’s energy reliability – including proposing a Texas Nuclear Power Fund to facilitate the development of nuclear power plants – State Senator Tan Parker has filed Senate Bill 1105 (SB 1105) to establish:
- the Texas Advanced Nuclear Energy Authority,
- a Texas Nuclear Permitting Office, and
- a Texas Advanced Nuclear Innovation Fund.
The report emphasized the need for a state-led authority to facilitate permitting, financing, and public-private partnerships, as well as to coordinate with federal regulators and industry stakeholders.
- READ MORE: Texas Advanced Nuclear Reactor Working Group Report Released
- The report includes seven Key Legislative Recommendations to position Texas as a global leader in Advanced Nuclear Energy
Texas currently hosts four large nuclear power units – the two Comanche Peak units and the two South Texas Project units – which combined have an installed capacity of 5,000 MW, producing about 10% of the state’s electricity.
About the Texas Advanced Nuclear Energy Authority
This new Authority aims to enhance and expand the state's nuclear industry by accelerating the adoption of advanced nuclear technologies. Key objectives include:
- Collaborating with higher education institutions, industry, and regulatory bodies to formulate a strategic plan for advanced nuclear energy development
- Identifying challenges and advising the governor and legislature on advanced nuclear energy matters
- Providing leadership within the state's advanced nuclear reactor system
- Managing projects to integrate clean, dispatchable nuclear power into Texas's power grid by 2035
- Supporting and attracting advanced nuclear energy industries and developing a robust supply chain within the state
The Authority will be administratively attached to the Office of the Governor and governed by an executive committee comprising appointees from the governor, lieutenant governor, and speaker of the house, as well as representatives from The Texas A&M University System, The University of Texas System, and Abilene Christian University. The executive committee is responsible for hiring an executive director to lead the authority's initiatives.
About the Nuclear Permitting Officer
Senate Bill 1105 also proposes the establishment of a permitting office within the Texas Advanced Nuclear Energy Authority. This office would be responsible for:
- Streamlining the permitting process for advanced nuclear projects in Texas
- Coordinating with federal and state agencies to facilitate regulatory approvals
- Providing guidance to businesses and organizations seeking permits for advanced nuclear energy development
Lastly, SB 1105 would create the Texas Advanced Nuclear Innovation Fund to help fund the research, development, and production of advanced nuclear technologies. Specifically, the Fund will:
- Provide matching funds to state entities, such as universities, for research and development
- Providing funding to private business entities to encourage economic development related to the research and development of advanced nuclear energy technologies
The fund will be a dedicated account within the general revenue (GR) fund, and can include gifts, grants or donations to the fund, and funding from other sources designated by the Texas Legislature.
What’s Next:
SB 1105 has been referred to the Senate Committee on Business & Commerce. Key discussions will likely focus on funding mechanisms, regulatory authority, and how the state can best collaborate with private industry to expand its nuclear energy footprint. Supporters argue that this legislation is critical to strengthening Texas' energy independence, while critics may raise concerns about oversight and cost.
The Big Picture:
Establishing an Authority, permitting office and fund aims to support the growing advanced nuclear technology industry in Texas, boost research and development at state universities, and reduce bureaucratic hurdles, all in an effort to expedite the deployment of advanced nuclear technology in Texas. Senator Parker’s bill moves Texas one step closer to becoming a leader in advanced nuclear energy, which has significant implications for the state’s grid reliability, energy security, and continued economic prosperity.
