A 1071

This bill establishes an advanced nuclear energy program within the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to promote the development of next-generation nuclear reactors that offer significant safety, efficiency, and environmental improvements over older reactor designs. The legislation creates a framework for "qualified projects" using advanced nuclear reactors, which must demonstrate enhanced features such as improved safety systems, lower waste production, better fuel performance, and operational flexibility to complement renewable energy sources. The bill introduces "Advanced Nuclear Energy Certificates" (ANECs) that represent the environmental and reliability benefits of electricity generated from these facilities, and establishes mechanisms for managing construction costs and regulatory oversight of these new nuclear projects. This initiative appears designed to position New Jersey as a leader in deploying modern nuclear technology as part of its clean energy transition.