HB 2410

This bill authorizes the Energy Facility Siting Council to approve and issue site certificates for a small modular reactor (SMR) nuclear energy demonstration project specifically in Umatilla County, Oregon, with the requirement that the facility must incorporate microgrid technology allowing it to operate independently from the main electric grid to support community energy resilience. The legislation mandates consultation with federally recognized Indian tribes that have lands in Umatilla County and requires the State Department of Energy to prepare a comprehensive report by December 15, 2026, identifying relevant regulations and potential statutory modifications needed for proper oversight of such facilities. Importantly, the bill includes a referendum provision that requires approval by Umatilla County voters at the next general election before it can take effect, effectively giving local residents the final say on whether to allow this nuclear demonstration project in their community.