Arizona could see an increase in small modular nuclear reactor construction under a bill that has been introduced in the state legislature.
House Bill 2774, if approved by lawmakers, would permit the building of such facilities without having to first secure a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility.
As proposed by Republican House Majority Leader Michael Carbone, the legislation also exempts such projects from local zoning regulations if the facility in question is built in a county with a population of less than 500,000 residents.
Of the state’s 15 counties, only two – Maricopa and Pima in central and south Arizona – have populations with more than 500,000 people.
The legislation additionally makes it possible for utility companies to not have to obtain a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility in replacing a conventional electric generating unit with a small modular nuclear reactor
In introducing his bill, Carbone said Arizona needs a “bold approach to ensure energy production keeps pace with demand, maintains grid reliability, and supports jobs growth, especially in rural areas.”
February 25, 2025
By Garry Boulard
