By State Sen. Jeff Raatz (R-Richmond)
With many energy-intensive industries like data centers relocating to Indiana, it is more important than ever to support safe, reliable energy solutions so our grid can keep up with demand. For that reason, I co-authored a law in 2023 that increases the permitted capacity of small modular nuclear reactors and one in 2022 intended to potentially support the development of nuclear power in our state.
While there are stringent federal restrictions on coal-fired power plants and reliability issues with traditional renewable energy sources like wind and solar that make them less suitable for the 24/7 energy demands of data centers, small modular nuclear reactors are one option that could provide a long-term, reliable and sustainable source of energy to meet the state's demand.
A recent study from Purdue University shows that small modular nuclear reactors also offer significant safety and economic advantages over traditional nuclear power plants.
Another law I co-authored in 2022 requires the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission to work with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management to adopt rules concerning the approval of the construction, purchase or lease of small modular reactors for use in Indiana.
Each of these laws help lay the groundwork for the development of small modular reactors in Indiana.
With Purdue University estimating the first units in the U.S. may come online by the end of the decade, it’s important for our state to be working ahead so we can make use of these power sources as soon as we can do so safely and reliably.
Constituents can reach out to me with any questions or concerns they may have by filling out a "Contact Me" form on the IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Raatz website or by phone at 800-382-9467.
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State Sen. Jeff Raatz (R-Richmond) represents Senate District 27, which includes
Henry, Union and Wayne counties, and portions of Franklin County.
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