Dear Chairman Murkowski:
On behalf of Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions (CRES), I am writing in support of S.903, the Nuclear Energy Leadership Act (NELA). CRES is proud to support this legislation.
NELA would make significant progress towards strengthening domestic nuclear capabilities and competitiveness. It would authorize long-term power purchase agreements with the federal government, thereby opening the door for nuclear to compete with other types of energy generation for government contracts. It would also direct the Department of Energy (DOE) to develop long-term advanced nuclear research and development goals. Finally, other key provisions would direct DOE to engage in strategic planning on nuclear energy, construct a fast neutron-capable research facility, and improve access to high- assay low-enriched uranium.
Nuclear energy supplies 20 percent of electricity in the United States, with zero emissions. While nuclear energy offers great promise, its full potential will not be reached without more collaboration between the federal government and the private sector. CRES looks forward to working with the Senate on passage of this legislation.
NELA is important legislation for modernizing U.S. nuclear energy policy and maintaining our position as global leaders in this space. We encourage Congress to pass this legislation as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Heather Reams, Executive Director