HF 4703

This bill appropriates funding from the renewable development account to the Public Utilities Commission to contract with the Great Plains Institute for a comprehensive study evaluating the potential for constructing nuclear-powered electric generating facilities in Minnesota. The study, which must be completed by June 30, 2027, will examine multiple factors including changes in federal licensing regulations, technological advances in conventional nuclear facilities and small modular reactors (up to 300 megawatts), siting requirements and community impacts, nuclear waste management issues, economic benefits to host communities, and emergency planning considerations. The findings must be submitted to legislative committees with jurisdiction over energy finance and policy by February 1, 2027, providing lawmakers with detailed information to inform future decisions about nuclear energy development in the state.