New Study: It's time to let nuclear energy meet our region's power needs
With electricity demand climbing and artificial intelligence driving rapid growth in data centers, a new study from Mountain States Policy Center says nuclear energy could play a critical role in meeting the region’s future power needs.
The study, “Nuclear Energy Can Help Meet the Region’s Growing Power Needs,” by MSPC researcher Sam Cardwell, examines growing pressure on America’s aging electric grid and the advances making nuclear power an increasingly viable option.
An analysis cited in the study projects data-center electricity consumption could grow 300% over the next decade, while overall U.S. electricity demand is expected to increase by about 3.5% annually through 2040. The study warns that without additional dependable generation, parts of the country could face shortages of dispatchable power during peak summer demand hours by 2030.
“America is entering an era in which we’re going to need significantly more electricity, not less,” Cardwell said. “Nuclear energy offers the reliable, around-the-clock power that data centers, businesses and families increasingly need. The Mountain West has an opportunity to help lead the way.”
The study highlights advances in small modular reactors (SMRs), which can produce up to 300 megawatts of electricity while occupying a fraction of the footprint of a traditional nuclear facility. Microreactors, typically producing 10 to 20 megawatts, could also provide scalable power for data centers and other facilities in rural areas.
The report also identifies regulatory and permitting reform as critical to making new nuclear projects economically viable. Long and unpredictable approval processes can significantly increase construction costs and discourage private investment.
Idaho and the Mountain West are particularly well-positioned to capitalize on the nuclear resurgence. Idaho is home to the Idaho National Laboratory, one of the nation’s leading centers for nuclear research and development. Idaho, Utah and Wyoming have also entered into a regional agreement to coordinate nuclear infrastructure, energy policy, workforce development and regulatory efforts.
Idaho has additionally adopted an Advanced Nuclear Strategic Framework and created an Advanced Nuclear Energy Task Force aimed at strengthening the state’s leadership in nuclear innovation, deployment and workforce development.
“Nuclear technology has changed dramatically, and the energy demands facing the country are changing just as quickly,” Cardwell said. “Policymakers should modernize the regulatory environment so private investment and innovation can respond to those demands.”
The study concludes that policymakers should act now because major energy infrastructure takes years to plan, permit and construct.
###
ABOUT MOUNTAIN STATES POLICY CENTER
Mountain States Policy Center is an independent research organization committed to providing fact-based, free-market solutions to policy challenges facing Idaho, Montana, Wyoming and Washington.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Mountain States Policy Center
(208) 295-9525
