The $6 billion allocation is the largest federal investment to save aging U.S. commercial nuclear reactors, whose owners have struggled to foot the bill for high maintenance costs and compete with lower-priced natural gas alternatives.
In the past 10 years alone, these financial constraints have forced closures of a dozen U.S. nuclear facilities before the expiration of their licenses — including New York’s Indian Point Energy Center, Massachusetts’s Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station, Nebraska’s Fort Calhoun Nuclear Generating Station, and Iowa’s Duane Arnold Energy Center.
WATCH: THE AG'S RAN ON "GETTING" TRUMP
The remaining U.S. nuclear plants are vulnerable as well. According to the Department of Energy, at least one-quarter of remaining nuclear plants are “at-risk” in the U.S., while the operators of seven active reactors have announced plans to retire them by 2025.
WATCH: THE TIMING OF TRUMP'S TRIAL, WHY NOW?
“U.S. nuclear power plants contribute more than half of our carbon-free electricity, and President Biden is committed to keeping these plants active to reach our clean energy goals,” Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm said.
“We’re using every tool available to get this country powered by clean energy by 2035, and that includes prioritizing our existing nuclear fleet to allow for continued emissions-free electricity generation and economic stability for the communities leading this important work,” she added.
SECURITY IN OVERDRIVE: HOME DEPOT'S UNCONVENTIONAL RESPONSE TO NEW YORK'S CRIME CRISIS
Nuclear plants are responsible for about 20% of total U.S. electricity generation, in addition to accounting for more than 50% of all clean energy generation. According to the Associated Press, there are currently 55 active commercial nuclear plants in the U.S., with 93 total reactors.
WHITE HOUSE WEIGHING GAME-CHANGING SHIFT IN IMMIGRATION POLICY
Keeping these remaining plants open and operational is vital if the Biden Administration hopes to deliver on its goal of reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
THREAT OR PROMISE? DEMOCRATIC HOPEFUL'S CONTROVERSIAL MESSAGE: "DIE MAGA DIE"
Owners or operators of nuclear power reactors that are expected to shut down for economic reasons can apply for funding to avoid closing prematurely. The first round of awards will prioritize reactors that have already announced plans to close. The second round will be opened up to more economically at-risk facilities. The program was funded through President Joe Biden’s $1 trillion infrastructure deal, which he signed into law in November.
TUCKER CARLSON TELLS JOE ROGAN WHAT POLITICIANS ARE SO AFRAID OF TODAY...
A strong majority of states — about two-thirds — say nuclear, in one fashion or another, will help take the place of fossil fuels. A dozen U.S. commercial nuclear power reactors have closed in the past decade before their licenses expired, largely due to competition from cheaper natural gas, massive operating losses due to low electricity prices and escalating costs, or the cost of major repairs.
Discover alternative ideas that will make you think
Engage in mind bending debate
Earn points, rise in rank, have fun
