Missouri Bill Advances to Allow Charging for Nuclear Plant Construction Costs
A Missouri bill has gained initial approval to allow electric companies to charge customers for constructing new nuclear power plants, a practice banned since 1976. The proposed legislation aims to facilitate the development of small modular nuclear reactors, addressing potential energy costs and supply issues in the state.
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House Bills 2122 and 1626 seek to lift the prohibition on electric companies charging for the construction of nuclear power plants in Missouri, a restriction in place since 1976. The bills, sponsored by Rep.
John Black, R-Marshfield, come as Missouri remains one of only two states with such a ban. The Missouri Public Service Commission will determine what construction costs can be included in electric rates, with refunds mandated if facilities are not operational in a timely manner.
Concerns about customer costs and safety arise from historical failures in other states where customers lost billions for unbuilt facilities. Critics also highlight the need for cleaner energy alternatives and the risks associated with nuclear energy, referencing past incidents and waste disposal issues in St.
Louis. Proponents argue that modern nuclear technology offers a safer, viable option to address energy demands.
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