Gov. Kim Reynolds signed an executive order Tuesday creating the Iowa Nuclear Energy Task Force, which will advise the governor, the Legislature and state agencies on the development and expansion of nuclear energy technologies and infrastructure in Iowa.
“Nuclear energy is a vital part of Iowa’s energy future, and I am committed to advancing reliable, sustainable energy solutions that strengthen our energy independence and fuel economic growth,” Gov. Reynolds said in a statement.
Mark Nutt, director of Nuclear Energy Programs at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, will serve as chair of the 14-member task force. Members include utilities, power production companies, local government, academia, the Iowa Utilities Commission and the General Assembly.
“As a graduate of Iowa State University’s Nuclear Engineering program, I’m grateful for the opportunity to apply my background to help evaluate how nuclear energy can responsibly and effectively benefit Iowans,” Mr. Nutt said in a statement. “This is an exciting time to explore innovative solutions for Iowa’s energy future.”
The group’s membership includes executives from Alliant Energy, MidAmerican Energy and NextEra Energy, along with Iowa Utilities Commission Chair Sarah Martz, ISU engineering professor Jim McCalley, and Linn County Board of Supervisors Chair Brandy Zumbach Meisheid. Labor representatives from IBEW Local 405 and the Iowa State Building & Construction Trades Council will also participate.
Legislative members span both parties and chambers, with participation from Senate Commerce Chair Mike Bousselot, House Commerce Chair David Young, Senate Commerce Ranking Member Izaah Knox and House Minority Whip Sean Bagniewski.
The task force will explore ways to work with the federal government to support nuclear energy development and align state initiatives with national regulations; assess emerging nuclear technologies for Iowa’s energy sector; and collaborate with industry leaders, academic institutions and others to build a skilled workforce for the growing nuclear industry.
The group will also work with manufacturers and other stakeholders to identify barriers to entry and the partnerships and investments needed to develop a nuclear supply chain in Iowa, as well as evaluate opportunities to spur economic growth through the use of nuclear energy.
Their findings and recommendations are due within 180 days of the order’s issuance, according to a release.
“With our strong foundation in manufacturing and energy innovation, we are uniquely positioned to lead the nation in developing and deploying nuclear technologies,” said Gov. Reynolds. “The creation of the Iowa Nuclear Energy Task Force marks a strategic step forward, ensuring the safe, efficient, and responsible integration of nuclear energy into our energy portfolio.”
