Ellman applauds law embracing sustainable nuclear technology for Illinois

NAPERVILLE — Construction of small-scale nuclear reactors will soon be possible in the state for the first time since 1987, thanks to an initiative supported by State Senator Laura Ellman that was signed by the governor Friday.

“Our state’s energy portfolio can be improved if we invest more into carbon-free nuclear-based energy,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “This law signals to investors that Illinois prioritizes clean and reliable energy as we move toward the next generation that prioritizes nuclear technologies.”

The legislation repeals the state’s decades-long moratorium on the construction of small modular reactors rated at 300 megawatts or less, approximately one-third the size of the smallest existing nuclear power plants in Illinois, beginning Jan. 1, 2026. The law also requires the state to commission a study to inform rules for regulating small modular reactors.

“New nuclear power broadens the shift from fossil fuels to sustainable and secure energy and helps achieve meeting our goal of being 100% carbon-free,” said Ellman. “Illinois recognizes the importance of nuclear power, and this allows us to build on it.”

House Bill 2473 – which Ellman was a chief co-sponsor of – is effective June 1, 2024.

Ellman: Lifting nuclear moratorium creates a sustainable future

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Laura Ellman (D-Naperville) issued the following statement after the Senate passed House Bill 2473, a measure that lifts the state’s decades-long moratorium on the construction of small modular nuclear reactors:

“Ending the decade-long moratorium on the construction of small modular nuclear reactors improves our state’s energy portfolio – creating a sustainable energy future for decades to come. The repeal sends the signal that Illinois is open to innovation and investment."

“Ultimately, lifting the moratorium leads our state toward our common goal of reaching 100% carbon-free energy and creating good paying jobs."

“I thank Senator Rezin for working with the governor’s office, labor representatives and the Illinois Environmental Council to pass a measure that continues the state on a path toward being a leader in nuclear power.”

House Bill 2473 passed following the governor’s veto of legislation he argued left the door open for more large-scale nuclear plants.

Ellman celebrates nationwide efforts to make Illinois a low-carbon economy

NAPERVILLE – Illinois is among the regional clean hydrogen hubs announced by President Biden and U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, a measure State Senator Laura Ellman has been advocating for since she established The Hydrogen Economy Task Force last year.
“Illinois has been poised to lead the nation’s transition to a low-carbon economy by embracing hydrogen energy,” said Ellman (D-Naperville). “As a Midwest Hydrogen Hub, we can take action on the strategic distribution of hydrogen across the state’s agricultural, refinery and transportation industries, as well as promote the use of renewable energy sources.”
The seven regional clean hydrogen hubs will receive $7 billion in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding to accelerate the domestic market for low-cost, clean hydrogen. Illinois is part of the Midwest Hydrogen Hub, along with Indiana and Michigan.
Located in a key U.S. industrial and transportation corridor, the Midwest Hydrogen Hub will enable decarbonization through strategic hydrogen uses including steel and glass production, power generation, refining, heavy-duty transportation and sustainable aviation fuel. This hydrogen hub plans to produce hydrogen by leveraging diverse and abundant energy sources, including renewable energy, natural gas and low-cost nuclear energy. The Midwest Hydrogen Hub anticipates creating 12,100 construction jobs and 1,500 permanent jobs.

Read more: Ellman celebrates nationwide efforts to make Illinois a low-carbon economy

Ellman issues statement on the governor’s decision to veto Senate Bill 76

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Laura Ellman’s issued the following statement after the governor’s decision to uphold the moratorium on new nuclear power plants.

“I support the lifting of the moratorium because the repeal allows for a robust conversation on the value of nuclear power investment in Illinois – which is moot under the moratorium. Illinois is already a leader in nuclear power and we understand its costs, benefits and the aging of our nuclear fleet. The repeal sends the signal that Illinois is open to innovation and investment – a signal that could be amplified by prioritizing nuclear technologies that use nuclear waste. I will work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in the weeks to come to ensure we can address the governor’s concerns and allow this measure to take effect.”