New Jersey Senate Bill S3312

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/7/22
• Refer: 11/7/22

Caption

Directs BPU to study development of, and create pilot program for, construction of small modular nuclear reactor.

Impact

The proposed legislation aims to assess not only the technical and economic feasibility of constructing these reactors but also the impact they may have on employment for workers displaced by the closure of traditional energy facilities. If the BPU finds that SMRs can be viably constructed on existing generation sites, there may be unique opportunities for the utilization of current land and infrastructure. This pilot program could lead to the establishment of new energy generation without the need for extensive new land use, thereby impacting state energy policy.

Summary

Senate Bill S3312 directs the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to conduct a study on the potential development of small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) as a means of replacing the lost generating capacity of existing electric facilities that are retiring or being planned for retirement. The bill defines small modular nuclear reactors as energy generation units with a capacity of not more than 300 megawatts, emphasizing the goal of evaluating their feasibility in addressing New Jersey's energy needs as older coal and natural gas facilities are phased out.

Contention

While proponents of S3312 see it as a progressive step towards cleaner energy generation and job preservation, detractors may raise concerns about the implications of introducing nuclear power technologies, including safety issues and the management of nuclear waste. This could potentially spark debates on environmental sustainability versus energy reliability as New Jersey transitions from fossil fuels to cleaner alternatives. Legislators must consider these factors as they navigate the complex landscape of energy reform and waste management concerning nuclear power.