OLYMPIA, Wash. – Washington state lawmakers are considering House Bill 2090, which would require the Department of Commerce to integrate advanced nuclear energy into the state’s energy strategy.
Rep. Stephanie Barnard (R-Pasco) bill seeks a serious evaluation of advanced nuclear energy to meet energy goals without increasing costs or risking reliability.
“As electricity demand continues to rise, we cannot afford to ignore reliable, carbon-free power sources that operate around the clock,” Barnard said in a release.
The bill directs the Washington State Department of Commerce to develop a nuclear power strategic framework. This framework, funded by non-state sources, would assess advanced nuclear energy’s role in complementing wind and solar power.
Barnard noted the need for consistent energy supply. “This bill reflects one of my top priorities: making sure our clean energy transition doesn’t come at the expense of reliability or affordability,” Barnard said.
The framework would examine various factors, including costs, reliability and regulatory pathways. It would also explore how advanced nuclear technologies could replace fossil-fuel electricity generation.
“Nuclear energy is an area I care deeply about because it offers a rare combination of clean power, reliability, and efficiency,” Barnard said.
HB 2090 had a public hearing in the House Environment and Energy Committee on Tuesday and is still under consideration.
