In an ambitious pivot from traditional energy sources, Texas, led by Gov. Greg Abbott, is investigating the potential of small nuclear reactors to provide reliable, pollution-free power.
Emily Foxhall reports for The Texas Tribune.
In short:
- Gov. Abbott is evaluating small nuclear reactors for their safety and reliability as an alternative to fossil fuels, with an aim to expand nuclear power in Texas.
- These compact reactors could provide a stable power supply for the state, especially during demand surges, unlike the intermittent energy from solar and wind farms.
- The move is a response to the state's power grid vulnerabilities, highlighted by the 2021 winter storm disaster, and represents a broader diversification of Texas' energy portfolio.
Key quote:
"These reactors have the potential to revolutionize the way power is generated in this state and provide stable, low-cost power for a long, long time here in Texas."
— Jimmy Glotfelty, state public utility commissioner
Why this matters:
As a source of continuous, or "baseload," power, small modular reactors can complement intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar, ensuring a steady power supply without the carbon emissions associated with fossil fuels. This aligns with global efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources to combat climate change.
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