Burns Introduces Bill to Encourage Nuclear Power in Oklahoma

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. George Burns, R-Pollard, has introduced Senate Bill 1712, a bill aimed at guiding the transition of electric utilities from coal-fired electric generation facilities to advanced nuclear reactors.

SB 1712 mandates that any electric utility opting to retire a coal-fired electric generation facility must provide written notification to the Corporation Commission. Additionally, they must inform the Commission of any preliminary plans for replacing the facility. The bill also requires electric utilities to prioritize replacing coal-fired facilities with advanced nuclear reactors.

“Senate Bill 1712 represents a crucial opportunity for Oklahoma to lead in clean energy innovation by prioritizing the transition to advanced nuclear reactors,” Burns said. “This bill underscores our commitment to a sustainable future while ensuring reliable and efficient energy for our state.’

The measure directs the Corporation Commission and the Department of Environmental Quality to establish rules and regulations governing the construction of advanced nuclear reactors. Furthermore, it mandates that any entity constructing a nuclear power plant must also construct a storage facility for spent fuel in the same ZIP code as the plant. The constructing entity must also submit a letter of intent to the Department outlining specific details as outlined in the measure.

SB 1712 is available to be considered.

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For more information, contact: Sen. Burns: (405) 521-5614 or George.Burns@oksenate.gov