Nebraska Joins Nuclear Energy Consortium

In a collaborative effort between Nebraska and Oklahoma, the Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD), Omaha Public Power District (OPPD), Lincoln Electric System (LES) and Grand River Dam Authority (GRDA) — have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to form the Great Plains New Nuclear Consortium.This consortium will explore the feasibility and development of deploying between 1,000 and 2,000 megawatts of new nuclear technology— including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)—within Nebraska to serve the needs of the four utilities in the Southwest Power Pool market footprint.Small Modular Reactors (smaller-scale nuclear fission reactors-under 300 Megawatt electrical) built from factory-fabricated modules, offering lower costs, faster deployment, and greater siting flexibility than traditional nuclear plants.A number of officials believe SMRs are the solution to Nebraska’s growing energy deficit. One of those is Jefferson County Commissioner Mark Schoenrock, who said earlier this year at a commissioners meeting, “NPPD is one of the leaders in the country trying to develop a good plan to field these small modular reactors all around the state, providing safe and reliable energy for Nebraska. But it can be done much more quickly and efficiently.”Beatrice is one of several locations under consideration by the NPPD for the location for a possible SMR. In 2022, the Nebraska Legislature allocated one million dollars to the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) to fund a Next Generation Nuclear Feasibility Survey. Those funds were subsequently awarded to NPPD. This early-stage collaboration reflects a shared commitment to long-term power supply planning, reliability, affordability, sustainability, diversity and innovation. The consortium will focus on feasibility studies, site evaluations and technology assessments. No construction or investment decisions have been made at this time.“This is a smart, forward-looking step for public power,” said Javier Fernandez, president and CEO of OPPD. “We’re exploring all viable options to ensure we can continue to deliver reliable, affordable energy and we’re doing it in a way that’s transparent, collaborative and grounded in data.”The consortium will be coordinated by a steering committee led by NPPD with representatives from each participating utility.“Nuclear technology has long proven to be a dependable and resilient energy source,” said NPPD President and CEO Tom Kent. “Public power utilities have a strong tradition of collaboration, and this consortium strengthens that legacy as we work together to meet the region’s growing energy demands.”Utilities across the country are facing rising demand, evolving reliability standards and the need for long-term resource planning. The consortium allows the partners to share expertise, reduce costs and evaluate how new nuclear technology could play a role in their future energy mix. “This partnership reflects the best of public power: local utilities working together for the long-term good of our communities,” said Emeka Anyanwu, CEO of LES. “We’re committed to thoughtful planning that puts people first and ensures our customers benefit from innovation, resilience and shared value.”“GRDA is proud to bring our generation and grid expertise to this effort,” said Dan Sullivan, president and CEO of GRDA. “This is about preparing for the future responsibly with a focus on reliability and cost-effectiveness.” Each utility will fund its own early-stage work. Any future steps, such as investment, permitting or construction, would follow public engagement and each utility’s independent board approval process.NPPD is currently finalizing a nuclear feasibility siting study funded through the Nebraska Legislature and the Nebraska Department of Economic Development. “While there is important work ahead, the siting feasibility study positions us proactively as the consortium begins exploring opportunities to deploy this technology within Nebraska,” added Kent.

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