Downriver Today

The House Energy Committee has moved forward with a bill led by state Representative Jamie Thompson, part of a bipartisan initiative aimed at creating jobs and boosting development in southeast Michigan. The legislative package, comprising House Bills 4124-29, focuses on providing tax credits for research and development in small modular nuclear reactors, as well as grants to advance nuclear and hydrogen research within the state.

"Nuclear energy has been a part of how our state and our region generates electricity for decades," stated Thompson. She highlighted the Fermi 2 Nuclear Power Plant in Monroe County, which supplies clean energy to over one million homes and businesses. "We are seeing a consistent demand for reliable, cleaner energy sources as our state continues to grow and new industries emerge. We can meet this demand and lead the way with innovation through these bills."

The high costs associated with constructing nuclear plants present significant challenges. These projects require substantial initial investments, suitable locations, and skilled labor capable of assembling custom components. Thompson's plan seeks to address these issues by promoting advanced small modular reactor technology that is nearing commercial deployment.

"There is currently a race for where a lot of these advancements are ultimately going to get researched and housed," said Thompson. She noted Michigan's strong manufacturing background and educational resources such as the University of Michigan's nuclear engineering programs as key advantages.

House Bill 4127, authored by Thompson, defines advanced nuclear reactor technology under state law in alignment with federal standards. These reactors are designed to be smaller, more cost-effective, and potentially replace retired coal power plants while generating carbon-free electricity.

HB 4127 will now proceed to the House for further consideration following unanimous approval from the House Energy Committee.