H.R.2813 - Small Modular Reactor Commercialization Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2813, the Small Modular Reactor Commercialization Act of 2025, aims to promote the development and deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs) by directing the Secretary of Energy to establish a working group focused on SMR commercialization and industrialization. The bill also seeks to modernize the electrical output thresholds for SMRs. It amends existing legislation, including the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, to reflect these updated thresholds.
The bill mandates the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and the Department of Energy (DOE) to revise their guidance to align with the new definitions of SMRs and microreactors. It also ensures that financial assistance eligibility for SMR projects is not limited by specific megawatt thresholds within a defined range.
Furthermore, the Act establishes a working group responsible for identifying promising SMR technologies, assessing the United States' ability to commercialize these technologies, and recommending policy changes to improve domestic manufacturing and workforce readiness.
Expected Effects
The passage of this bill would likely lead to increased investment and development in small modular reactor technology. This could result in a more diverse and resilient energy infrastructure. It could also stimulate job creation in the manufacturing and energy sectors.
The updated regulations and financial assistance eligibility criteria could accelerate the deployment of SMRs. This would provide a cleaner energy source and potentially reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The working group's recommendations could shape future energy policy and research priorities.
However, the actual impact will depend on the effectiveness of the working group and the willingness of private companies to invest in SMR technology. The long-term economic and environmental consequences of SMR deployment also need to be carefully monitored.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Energy Security: SMRs can provide a reliable and diverse source of energy, reducing dependence on foreign energy sources.
- Job Creation: The development, manufacturing, and deployment of SMRs can create jobs in various sectors, including engineering, construction, and manufacturing.
- Economic Growth: Investment in SMR technology can stimulate economic growth and innovation.
- Cleaner Energy: SMRs offer a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality.
- Grid Resilience: SMRs can be deployed in a distributed manner, enhancing the resilience of the electrical grid.
Potential Disadvantages
- High Initial Costs: The initial investment costs for developing and deploying SMRs can be substantial.
- Regulatory Hurdles: SMRs still face regulatory hurdles and licensing requirements, which can delay deployment.
- Waste Disposal: Nuclear waste disposal remains a challenge, and SMRs will contribute to the overall volume of nuclear waste.
- Safety Concerns: Although SMRs are designed with enhanced safety features, there are still concerns about nuclear accidents and security risks.
- Environmental Impact: The environmental impact of uranium mining and nuclear fuel production needs to be considered.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the US Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce and provide for the general welfare. The promotion of energy security and technological innovation falls within the scope of these powers. The establishment of a working group and the direction to federal agencies are consistent with Congress's authority to enact laws and oversee the executive branch.
There are no apparent violations of individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights. The bill does not infringe upon freedom of speech, religion, or any other fundamental right. The focus on energy policy and economic development is within the purview of the federal government's enumerated powers.
However, the long-term implementation of the bill should be monitored to ensure that any regulations or actions taken by federal agencies remain consistent with constitutional principles and do not unduly burden individual liberties or state sovereignty.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).