Sangamon Sun

Illinois lawmakers have lifted a moratorium on new nuclear reactor construction, allowing for the development of small nuclear reactors as part of the state's energy future. The bipartisan legislation, passed during the fall veto session, will enable the construction of 300 megawatt reactors known as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) throughout Illinois. This move comes as downstate coal and gas plants are scheduled to shut down in the coming years.

Nuclear power currently accounts for more than 50 percent of Illinois' energy. By lifting the ban on new reactor construction, the state aims to accelerate its transition to clean energy. SMRs, being produced at factory scale, offer lower costs and faster deployment compared to previous generations of reactors.

The U.S. Department of Energy has set a goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and is relying on an increase in nuclear power generation to meet this target. To accomplish this, an additional 200 gigawatts of reliable generating capacity will be needed. Illinois is also planning to close its coal-fired power plants by 2045.

Small Modular Reactors, with a power capacity of 300 megawatts, are smaller and more agile than traditional nuclear power reactors. They can be factory-assembled and transported to locations that may not be suitable for larger nuclear plants. SMRs can also be integrated with other renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, to create efficient hybrid energy systems.

Representative Rosenthal emphasizes the importance of nuclear reactors in meeting the growing demand for energy in Illinois: "The demand for energy in Illinois continues to grow and nuclear reactors will play a big role in creating safe and reliable energy for our state. Energy generated by wind and sun can only go so far. I think if we utilize nuclear reactors in a safe way, they will pay dividends in future energy."

Currently, Illinois has 11 nuclear power reactors spread across six nuclear power stations. These reactors, located in Braidwood, Byron, Clinton, Dresden, LaSalle, and the Quad Cities, are licensed to generate electricity.

The development of nuclear power plants had slowed down significantly nationwide after the Three Mile Island incident in Pennsylvania in 1979. However, with states now lifting their bans on new construction, including Wisconsin, Kentucky, Montana, and West Virginia, nuclear power is making a comeback.

With the lifting of the moratorium on new nuclear reactor construction, Illinois is taking a significant step towards a clean and reliable energy future. By embracing Small Modular Reactors, the state will be able to meet its growing energy demands while reducing emissions and transitioning away from coal and gas plants.