Bowling Green Today

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Nuclear for Brownfields Site Preparation Act, a discussion draft proposed by Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), has successfully passed through the Energy subcommittee of the House Energy & Commerce Committee. The bill aims to streamline the licensing and permitting process for brownfield sites, such as former coal-fired plants, to facilitate the expansion of nuclear power.

Congressman Guthrie, expressing his satisfaction with the bill's progress, highlighted the importance of American energy independence and the role of Kentucky's energy workers in achieving this goal. He emphasized the need to tap into the expertise of these workers to maintain Kentucky's position as a leader in American energy production.

"By streamlining licensing and permitting for brownfield sites like former coal-fired plants, for future nuclear power expansion, we can keep using the existing infrastructure, improve grid reliability, and diversify our energy portfolio," said Congressman Guthrie. He eagerly anticipates the bill's advancement to the Energy & Commerce Committee.

The Nuclear for Brownfields Site Preparation Act directs the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to identify and report on the regulations, guidance, or policy required to license and oversee nuclear facilities at brownfield sites and other locations with retired fossil fuel facilities. The NRC will explore methods of reusing existing site infrastructure and consider the use of early site permits, plant parameter envelopes, or standardized applications for similar sites in the licensing process.

Additionally, the NRC will be tasked with developing and implementing strategies, including through rulemaking, to facilitate and support the licensing of nuclear facilities. These strategies will take into account various factors, such as existing emergency planning, environmental data and reviews, decontamination and remediation, community engagement, and historical experience with energy use at the sites.

The passage of this bill through the Energy subcommittee marks an important step in promoting the expansion of nuclear power and diversifying the nation's energy portfolio. By repurposing brownfield sites, the bill seeks to leverage existing infrastructure, enhance grid reliability, and contribute to the overall goal of achieving energy independence.

As the bill moves forward to the Energy & Commerce Committee, it is expected to garner further attention and support from lawmakers who recognize the significance of nuclear energy in meeting the country's energy needs.

To learn more, click on this link: https://guthrie.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=388109