Missouri utilities committee hears bill to allow CWIP for small modular nuclear reactors

At a hearing of the Missouri House Committee on Utilities, lawmakers and witnesses debated legislation that would let investor‑owned utilities recover construction costs during building of small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs). Sponsors said the measure would help the state secure baseload, carbon‑free power and attract large electricity users; critics said the proposal would expose residential and vulnerable customers to higher costs if projects encounter delays or overruns.

Representative John Black, R‑Marshfield (District 129), identified the measure as the Missouri Nuclear Clean Power Act and said it would allow "CWIP"—construction work in progress—costs to be passed on during construction for "really small modular reactors" of 600 megawatts or less. "This bill allows CWIP to be passed on for really small modular reactors, this emerging technology. The bill says 600 megawatts or less," Black said.

Why it matters: Backers argue the change would make Missouri competitive with neighboring states that already permit CWIP, lower long‑term costs by reducing financing carry charges and support fast‑growing electric demand from data centers and manufacturers. Opponents counter that CWIP shifts upfront financing risk and return to ratepayers, can raise bills if plants are delayed or canceled, and requires robust clawback and oversight provisions.

Supporters and technical…