Bill > A4901

Introduced Session

This bill directs the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to (1) study the development of small modular nuclear reactors, and (2) following the conclusion of the study, create a pilot program for the construction of a small modular nuclear reactor. The study is to evaluate whether, and to what extent, the construction of small modular nuclear reactors in the State may replace a loss of generating capacity in the State resulting from the retirement or planned retirement of one or more existing electric generating facilities, which are located in New Jersey and which use coal or natural gas as a fuel source. The bill directs the BPU, in conducting the study, to consider whether a small modular nuclear reactor may be constructed on the same site as an existing electric generating facility, and, if so, the potential opportunities for an electric power supplier or basic generation service provider to be able to (a) make use of any land and existing infrastructure or facilities already owned or under the control of the electric power supplier or basic generation service provider, or (b) create new employment opportunities for workers who have been, or would be, displaced as a result of the retirement of the existing electric generating facility. Following the conclusion of the study and the submittal of a report to the Governor and the Legislature, the bill directs the BPU to adopt rules and regulations to establish a pilot program for the construction of a small modular nuclear reactor in the State.

AI Summary

Committee Categories

Kimberly Eulner (R)*,  Marilyn Piperno (R)*, 

Introduced, Referred to Assembly Telecommunications and Utilities Committee (on 12/05/2022)

Official Document