Senate Bill 2967 aims to advance nuclear energy technology in Texas

The Senate Committee on Business and Commerce convened on April 8, 2025, to discuss the future of advanced nuclear and innovative energy technologies in Texas. The meeting was led by the committee chairman, who emphasized the importance of formulating effective policies to support the state's energy portfolio, particularly concerning nuclear energy.

The chairman introduced several key questions for consideration, including the current state of nuclear technology, its role in Texas's energy strategy, the necessity of state-supported financial incentives, and the potential need for a dedicated office to oversee nuclear initiatives. He highlighted the filing of Senate Bill 2967, aimed at initiating discussions on these topics and laying the groundwork for future legislation.

The committee heard testimony from several invited experts, including former Public Utility Commission (PUC) Commissioner Jimmy Glotfelty and Doug Robinson, CEO of Natura Resources. Glotfelty outlined the critical issues facing the nuclear industry, such as the need for permitting support and financial incentives to reduce risks for private companies. He stressed that Texas must act swiftly to avoid falling behind other states in the development of nuclear technology.

Robinson discussed the advantages of advanced nuclear technologies, particularly molten salt reactors, which he described as safe, modular, and capable of producing low-carbon energy. He emphasized the importance of bridging the "valley of death," a term used to describe the financial and developmental hurdles that innovative projects face before reaching commercial viability. Robinson proposed targeted support measures, including milestone-based programs and streamlined permitting processes, to foster the growth of nuclear energy in Texas.

The committee members expressed concerns regarding the costs and timelines associated with nuclear projects, referencing the challenges faced by a recent nuclear project in Georgia that experienced significant delays and cost overruns. They questioned how Texas could ensure a return on investment for taxpayers if state funds were allocated to nuclear initiatives.

In response, Glotfelty reassured the committee that the technologies being developed are based on proven designs and that the state could benefit economically from supporting the nuclear industry. He argued that nuclear energy should not only be viewed as a power source but also as a solution for various industrial applications, including water desalination.

The discussion also touched on the need for a skilled workforce to support the nuclear sector, with both Glotfelty and Robinson acknowledging that while Texas has a strong foundation, further workforce development will be necessary as the industry expands.

As the meeting progressed, the committee heard from additional witnesses, including representatives from Dow and CPS Energy, who reiterated the potential benefits of advanced nuclear technologies for Texas's economy and energy landscape.

In conclusion, the committee's discussions highlighted the urgency of advancing nuclear energy initiatives in Texas, with a focus on creating a supportive regulatory environment and fostering public-private partnerships. The next steps will involve further deliberation on Senate Bill 2967 and the potential establishment of a framework to support the growth of nuclear energy in the state.