Interest in nuclear energy has expanded in recent years as the AI boom has set unprecedented energy demand.
But Arizona utilities say they won’t be the first to build new nuclear sites.
The Arizona Corporation Commission held a workshop last week to get the pulse of what it takes to finance nuclear generation projects.
Arizona utilities are looking into new nuclear options and have submitted a grant proposal to the federal government. But they are not looking to be the first in the country to build new nuclear plants, whether with traditional sites or small modular reactors.
Brad Berles is new nuclear project lead with APS.
“We're looking to try and position ourselves in a better position to ensure that cost certainty and the schedule certainty. Now, those that are first movers, they're looking for and getting a little bit more support at the national level to help with ensuring for financing," Berles said.
Workshop participants included the U.S. Department of Energy, the offices of Congressman David Schweikert and Sen. Ruben Gallego, and state government representatives.
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