Texas bets big on nuclear: Lawmakers greenlight $350M in taxpayer funds for new projects

AI generated summary

Texas lawmakers have approved a $350 million program aimed at attracting advanced nuclear industry projects to the state, despite the initial request of $2 billion. Governor Greg Abbott hailed this funding as the largest national commitment to nuclear energy, emphasizing Texas's ambition to lead in advanced nuclear power. The new legislation, House Bill 14, will establish a Texas nuclear energy office to oversee the funding program and assist companies with regulatory processes.

While the nuclear industry expresses optimism about the potential for job creation and investment, environmental groups have raised concerns about taxpayer funding for a technology they view as unproven. Critics argue that the funds should be structured as loans rather than grants, highlighting the need for accountability. The approved funding will support project development and construction costs, with safeguards in place to protect taxpayer interests, but concerns about radioactive waste management and safety remain significant issues for opponents of the initiative.