Senator Andrew Mathews (R–Princeton) this week introduced legislation aimed at exploring advanced nuclear energy as a clean, reliable, and affordable power source for Minnesota that could also create jobs and strengthen the state’s economy.
“Nuclear energy is always-on and always carbon-free,” said Sen. Mathews. “There is no chance Minnesota can reach its 2040 carbon-free mandate without nuclear energy. We have to start taking steps to re-open the state to nuclear energy so Minnesotans can get reliable, clean, and affordable energy just like our neighboring states.”
Senate File 1435 would establish a study evaluating the costs, benefits, feasibility, and environmental impacts of advanced nuclear power in helping Minnesota meet its carbon-free goals.
Gregg Felber, Sherburne County Commissioner, testified in support of the bill. He represents the city of Becker, home to the Sherco Power Plant.
“We definitely support nuclear power. It’s what we need,” said Felber. “It’s 100% carbon-free. It’s the baseload power that we need for the future of our industry and for safety. We would be happy to host nuclear power in Sherburne County.”
Derrick Moe, President and CEO of the Minnesota Rural Electric Association and a member of the Minnesota Nuclear Energy Alliance, also testified in support.
“Nuclear is important as an opportunity for great jobs. Many environmental groups recognize that carbon-free energy and energy that is available at all times is important to moving the state’s goals forward,” said Moe. “Having a carbon-free requirement in this state and having the intersection of one resource that’s available at all times, and carbon-free, really makes it important that that resource be on the table for our state’s future.”
The Prairie Island Indian Community submitted a letter in support of the bill.
The bill was heard in the Senate Energy, Utilities, Environment, and Climate Committee and laid over for possible inclusion in the Energy omnibus bill.