Bill > AB305

This bill makes several key changes to California's energy regulations, focusing on nuclear power facilities. The legislation would exempt small modular reactors (defined as nuclear reactors with up to 300 megawatts of electrical generating capacity) from existing restrictions on nuclear power plant construction and certification. Currently, California law prohibits new nuclear power plants unless specific conditions are met, such as the availability of nuclear fuel rod reprocessing technology and high-level nuclear waste disposal methods. The bill would maintain existing exceptions for the Diablo Canyon and San Onofre nuclear power plants while creating a new pathway for small modular reactors. Additionally, the bill requires the Public Utilities Commission to develop a plan by January 1, 2028, to increase electricity procurement from nuclear facilities and simultaneously phase out electricity procurement from natural gas facilities. This legislation aligns with California's existing policy goal of achieving 100% zero-carbon electricity sales by 2045, potentially opening the door for new nuclear technology as part of the state's clean energy strategy while continuing to reduce reliance on fossil fuel-generated electricity.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB305