The Iowa Nuclear Task Force has released its final report on the potential for nuclear energy growth within the state.
Gov. Kim Reynolds created the task force in January and directed its members to research and develop a plan to expand the state’s role in the growing nuclear energy sector.
The ad hoc task force brought together regulatory, distribution, and generation players, including utilities, local officials, academics, the Iowa Utilities Commission, trade groups, and lawmakers.
Over five months, the group met seven times to examine workforce needs, supply chains, regulatory issues, waste management, and economic development.
The report concludes Iowa is well positioned to lead in nuclear energy, citing its manufacturing base, skilled workforce, and experience deploying new energy technologies. It highlighted the planned restart of the Duane Arnold Energy Center near Palo as evidence of the state’s nuclear leadership.
The task force issued nine recommendations to facilitate nuclear energy growth. Those recommendations include a single point of contact in the state to facilitate nuclear energy development, statewide feasibility studies, incentive programs, workforce development pathways, and federal liaisons.
Reynolds says, “Nuclear energy represents an important opportunity for Iowa to strengthen our energy portfolio, support economic growth and meet the increasing demand for reliable power.” The task force’s complete 130-page report is included with this story on our website.
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