New Jersey Gov. Mikie Sherrill convened the first meeting of the state’s new Nuclear Task Force Oct. 1 while simultaneously launching a new website, Nuclear NJ.
The group will work toward bringing next-generation nuclear energy online in the state. The effort aims to help combat high energy costs and power future growth.
“New Jersey needs more clean, reliable power to lower costs, meet growing demand, and fuel our economy for decades to come. Next-generation nuclear will help us get there at scale,” Sherrill said.
On April 8, Sherrill signed legislation amending the 1973 Coastal Area Facility Review Act. CAFRA had restricted permits to build new nuclear energy plants in New Jersey unless a safe, federally approved method for disposing of radioactive waste was available.
“Earlier this year, we ended a 50-year moratorium on new nuclear power. Now, we are laying the groundwork to turn new nuclear power into reality through coordinated, strategic action across state government and with cross-sector stakeholders,” Sherrill said. “We’ve assembled the best of the best on this Task Force, and we are going to take big swings today to secure New Jersey’s energy future tomorrow.”
The nuclear task force will include the following five established sub committees:
- Regulatory & Permitting Framework – Review regulatory and permitting requirements and identify opportunities to streamline the development of new nuclear generation
- Financing & Deal Structure – Assess financing mechanisms and offtake models to support new nuclear development
- Supply Chain & Technology Development – Evaluate supply-chain needs and emerging technology opportunities
- Workforce Growth & Training – Identify workforce and training needs to build the skilled workforce necessary to support the industry
- Public Trust & Confidence – Develop strategies to engage and educate the public on advanced nuclear power and solicit community input
Alongside this announcement, the administration revealed the new Nuclear NJ website.
The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU), the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) banded together to create this educational resource. The website serves to educate stakeholders about the path New Jersey is beginning to travel, as well as its progress pertaining to nuclear energy.
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