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Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed legislation in 2023 that lifted a
decades-long moratorium on new nuclear power reactors, but was
aimed at exploring the use of small modular reactors, or SMRs.
One measure in Springfield would allow for the expansion of
nuclear power beyond small modular reactors. The measure would
remove provisions prohibiting the construction of new nuclear
power reactors with a nameplate capacity of more than 300
megawatts of electricity.
“We’re looking forward to having a bill that comes to my desk
that will allow us to expand the options for nuclear in the
state of Illinois but it has to be done in the right way,” said
Pritzker.
While signing a trade agreement with Illinois, United Kingdom
Consul General Richard Hyde said his country could become
involved with an expansion of nuclear power.
“Illinois has adopted a standard and definition of small modular
reactors, which we think is a little old fashioned,” said Hyde.
“We would love to open up like states around you and let Rolls
Royce come and bring their technology into Illinois and drive
forward small modular reactors.”
Rolls Royce is developing SMRs in Great Britain. A reactor in
Canada is the only example under construction in the Western
Hemisphere.
David Kraft is with the Chicago-based Nuclear Energy Information
Service. He said there are other safe energy sources that will
be pushed aside if more nuclear power comes online.
“We have solutions that don’t produce radioactive waste or any
kind of radioactive hazard waiting in line to be connected, and
we do know if more nuclear gets built, fewer of those projects
will be connected,” said Kraft.
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