This summer, Congresswoman Elaine Luria (D-VA) introduced the House version of the Nuclear Energy Leadership Act (NELA). Like its Senate counterpart, S.903 - Nuclear Energy Leadership Act, led by Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and 17 additional bipartisan Senators, H.R.3306 is a bipartisan bill aimed at developing a new generation of advanced nuclear energy systems. This legislation has several key sections designed to jumpstart innovation in advanced nuclear.
If enacted, NELA will:
- Establish a nationwide strategy for nuclear science and engineering research and development
- Provide for at least two advanced nuclear reactor demonstration projects, to be completed by the end of 2025
- Revise federal energy contracting authority so that the government can enter into Power Purchase Agreements for up to 40 years, better reflecting the length of time that nuclear power offers a return on investment
- Start a pilot program for a long-term nuclear Power Purchase Agreement featuring breakthrough, first-of-its-kind nuclear technology
- Require the Department of Energy to provide a source for fast-neutron research, which will be key for testing advanced nuclear concepts
- Create a program to begin supplying reactors with High-Assay Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU), fuel which will be needed for many advanced reactor designs
- Establish a University Nuclear Leadership Program to provide scholarships and funding for students pursuing studies in nuclear science.
NELA is essential to sustaining the portfolio of advanced U.S. nuclear technologies needed to support our nation's clean air, national security, and global nonproliferation objectives. NELA will revitalize the U.S. nuclear energy enterprise and educate the next generation of nuclear technology professionals.
Urge your Member of Congress to become a sponsor of NELA.
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