Rep. Goldman Questions Sec. Wright on Advanced Nuclear Project at Abilene Christian University

Advanced Nuclear Project at Abilene Christian University

• 💡 Abilene Christian University holds one of two NRC permits to build a next-generation reactor.
• 🔑 The Department of Energy (DOE) committed in 2019 to provide fuel and salt for this project, a commitment they intend to honor.
• ⏳ In a perfect world with a reasonable regulatory regime, the reactor should be selling electricity within five years.

DOE Support for Nuclear Workforce

• 🧠 The DOE budget aims to increase support for universities and colleges to train the next generation of nuclear scientists and skilled workers.
• 🚀 The DOE believes that building reactors, selling power, and growing businesses will excite young people about the nuclear industry.
• 📈 Sustainable industries that grow because customers want their products, not due to government subsidies, are key to attracting talent.

Nuclear Energy vs. Subsidized Renewables

• ⚡ While wind and solar are subsidized, nuclear, natural gas, and coal are not subsidized and are sometimes penalized by being forced to turn on and off.
• 📊 The DOE is focusing its dollars on initiatives that improve the American energy system and offer consumer-desired products.

Texas Grid and Future Power Needs

• 🔌 Texas needs more power, and a proposal suggests that entities bidding into the electricity market must be able to provide 24/7 power.
• 💡 This is compared to an Uber service where reliability and predictability are essential for customers, emphasizing the need for consistent electricity supply.