The Public Utility Commission of Texas has released its final report detailing recommendations for how the state can build an advanced, preeminent nuclear power industry.
“Texas is the energy capital of the world, and we are ready to be No. 1 in advanced nuclear power,” Gov. Greg Abbott stated about the Texas Advanced Nuclear Reactor Working Group’s final report.
By utilizing advanced nuclear energy, Texas will enhance the reliability of the state grid and provide affordable, dispatchable power to Texans across the state. I thank Public Utility Commissioner Jimmy Glotfelty and the members of the Texas Advanced Nuclear Reactor Working Group for working tirelessly to put Texas on the path to be the global leader in advanced nuclear power.
“As we build an advanced nuclear industry in our great state, we will ensure Texas remains a leader in energy and strengthen the Texas grid to meet the demands of our growing state,” Abbott continued.
In the report, the group highlighted the many nuclear assets Texas currently has and explored some of the benefits that advanced nuclear power would bring to the state.
Some of the benefits listed include enhanced energy security, improved grid reliability, and leading the nation in advanced nuclear power development.
“Texas has long been the energy capital of the world, and today we have an incredible opportunity to build a world-leading advanced nuclear industry that will deliver safe, reliable power for generations to come,” explained Jimmy Glotfelty, a PUC commissioner.
The report also outlined roadblocks to the development of nuclear power, potential sites that are ready for advanced nuclear energy, and legislative recommendations.
However, those recommendations have left some specialists concerned.
“Governor Abbott’s Nuclear Working Group proposes more of the same centralized government control and market intervention that have increased the cost and reduced the reliability of the Texas electricity market,” Bill Peacock of the Energy Alliance told Texas Scorecard. “Because of these policies, Texas had the second highest wholesale electricity prices in the nation last year, barely trailing California and ahead of New York City.”
“Throwing more taxpayer money at the electricity market is not going to solve the problem,” Peacock added. “The only path forward to a more reliable electric grid is to eliminate all subsidies and other benefits for renewable energy. Something the Texas Legislature has steadfastly refused to do.”
In September 2023, Gov. Abbott tasked the working group with constructing an outline for Texas to become the leader in advanced nuclear technology.
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