DeKalb Times

Illinois lawmakers have lifted a moratorium on new nuclear reactor construction that had been in place since 1987, paving the way for small nuclear reactor construction after January 1, 2026. The legislation, passed during the fall veto session, will allow the state to build 300 megawatt reactors, known as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), throughout Illinois. This move comes as downstate coal and gas plants are scheduled to shut down in the coming years.

"Nuclear power is the source of more than 50 percent of the state’s energy," said an unnamed source. By lifting the ban on construction of new reactors, the development of emission-free nuclear power will accelerate the state’s transition to clean energy.

The use of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) is seen as a key component of Illinois' clean energy future. These advanced nuclear reactors have a power capacity of 300 megawatts, about one-third of traditional nuclear power reactors. SMRs are smaller in size and can be factory-assembled and transported to locations for installation, making them suitable for areas where larger nuclear power plants are not feasible.

"SMRs can be paired with other renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, to increase efficiency in a hybrid energy system," said another unnamed source. This characteristic positions SMRs to play a vital role in the clean energy transition. More than 80 commercial SMR designs are being developed worldwide, targeting various applications such as electricity, hybrid energy systems, heating, water desalinization, and industrial applications.

The lifting of the moratorium aligns with the U.S. Department of Energy's goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. To reach this target, the country needs to add an additional 200 gigawatts of reliable generating capacity. Additionally, the state of Illinois plans to close coal-fired power plants by 2045.

Currently, Illinois is home to 11 nuclear power reactors located at six nuclear power stations. These reactors, located in Braidwood, Byron, Clinton, Dresden, LaSalle, and the Quad Cities, are licensed to generate electricity. However, the development of nuclear power plants in the United States came to a near halt after the partial meltdown of the Three Mile Island power plant in Pennsylvania in 1979. Only a few reactors have come online since then.

Other states, including Wisconsin, Kentucky, Montana, and West Virginia, have also rolled back their nuclear bans in recent years.

"Advancements in nuclear technology and safety improvements make it a perfect fit for ensuring future capacity for residents and job creators," stated Rep. Jeff Keicher (R-Sycamore). "As a zero-carbon energy source that is not dependent on wind or sunlight, nuclear is essential to meeting energy demands as electric battery and vehicle technology proliferate."

With the lifting of the moratorium, Illinois is taking a significant step towards a cleaner and more reliable energy future. The construction of Small Modular Reactors will not only help meet the growing demand for electricity but also contribute to the state's goal of reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to a more sustainable energy grid.