The U.S. Department of Energy released a Notice of Intent and Request for Information Feb. 11 for the $6 billion Civil Nuclear Credit Program, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
The Civil Nuclear Credit Program is designed to support the continued operation of nuclear power plants, which is the nation's largest source of clean energy. Twelve commercial reactors have been closed across the country since 2013 because of economic factors such as shifting energy markets. According to the DOE, shutting down nuclear power plants results in increased carbon emissions, poorer air quality and the loss of thousands of high-paying jobs.
“U.S. nuclear power plants are essential to achieving President Biden’s climate goals and DOE is committed to keeping 100 percent clean electricity flowing and preventing premature closures,” said Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law makes this all possible by allowing us to leverage our existing clean energy infrastructure, strengthen our energy security and protect U.S. jobs. DOE is facilitating the development of next generation technologies that can ultimately lower emissions and bolster the clean energy workforce.”
DOE is inviting owners and operators of commercial reactors to apply for the program. Applicants must prove the closure of their reactors is due to economic factors and that the closure will result in an increase in air pollution. The Request for Information seeks input on the structure and execution of the Civil Nuclear Credit Program.
