Bill > HB2456

This bill aims to encourage the development of nuclear power in Arizona by updating existing laws related to community planning and energy generation. It amends the requirements for county comprehensive plans, which are long-term development strategies, to include considerations for electric power production and demand, specifically mentioning small modular reactors (SMRs) and data centers. The bill also introduces a new designation for "nuclear-ready communities," which are cities, towns, or unincorporated areas that demonstrate readiness for nuclear energy development. To achieve this designation, communities must hold public educational meetings about nuclear energy, identify suitable sites, and pass resolutions outlining their willingness to support nuclear projects, including details on potential economic impacts and past opposition to development. Furthermore, the bill requires that applicants seeking permits for nuclear generating units prioritize siting these facilities in or near designated nuclear-ready communities and explain why they did not choose such a location if they opt for a different site. The Arizona Commerce Authority, in consultation with the Corporation Commission, will develop the criteria and process for awarding the nuclear-ready community designation. Finally, counties meeting certain population thresholds will have four years to update their comprehensive plans to reflect these new provisions.