HB 1584

This bill directs Washington State to incorporate advanced nuclear reactor technology into its comprehensive energy planning strategy, recognizing it as a potential carbon-free electricity generation resource that could help meet the state's greenhouse gas reduction goals. The legislation amends existing state energy policy (RCW 43.21F.088) to explicitly include advanced nuclear reactor technology alongside other clean energy sources like bioenergy, renewable natural gas, and green hydrogen as part of Washington's path to reduce fossil fuel dependence. While acknowledging the unresolved federal issue of spent nuclear fuel storage and calling for active state advocacy on this matter, the bill positions advanced nuclear technology as aligned with the state's three primary energy goals: maintaining competitive energy prices, fostering a carbon-free economy with job creation, and meeting greenhouse gas emission reduction obligations.