During the tour, lawmakers learned how advanced fuels – small enough to fit on a pencil eraser yet capable of powering a small city – could reshape energy production
Members of the Washington State Nuclear Caucus toured the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) near Idaho Falls on Sept. 22 to learn more about advanced nuclear technologies and their potential role in Washington’s energy future.
“We must investigate and use all possible options for increasing electric power generation,” said Rep. John Ley, R-Vancouver. “We have been blessed with abundant hydroelectric power for the past century, but that is no longer enough. The explosive growth of AI data centers, electric vehicles, and home heating demands indicates we don’t have enough capacity. Adding clean nuclear power generation can be an essential component in keeping our state powered for the next century.”
During the tour, lawmakers learned how advanced fuels – small enough to fit on a pencil eraser yet capable of powering a small city – could reshape energy production. INL researchers also demonstrated the safety and durability testing underway to ensure modern reactors can withstand long-term exposure to atomic fuels and extreme environments.
Washington state’s grid is facing a growing strain. A recent report projects the state will require an additional 5,300 gigawatt-hours by 2030 and 13,500 gigawatt-hours by 2045 to meet demand. By 2050, electrical load growth is anticipated to nearly double from 2020 levels. At the same time, companies like Amazon are partnering with Energy Northwest to develop small modular reactors in Richland, with the first units expected to be operational in the early 2030s. This partnership will help meet the energy needs of high-tech industries and contribute to achieving net-zero goals.
Ley represents the 18th Legislative District and serves on the House Environment and Energy Committee.
Information provided by Washington State House Republicans, houserepublicans.wa.gov
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