Transcript:
In 1994, Minnesota banned new nuclear power plant construction in the state. Now lawmakers are considering whether to end that ban.
Minnesota aims to fully transition to zero-carbon electricity by 2040. To meet that goal, it’s investing in solar, wind, and batteries.
But it’s not always sunny or windy out, and batteries cannot yet fill the gaps for very long.
So as the state retires coal plants and prepares to phase out gas plants …
Lieb: “We’re left with challenges in replacing … the type of generation that can turn on and stay on for a very long time.”
Sydnie Lieb, who helps oversee utility regulation for the Minnesota Department of Commerce, says nuclear plants could help because they can provide energy 24/7 and do not emit carbon pollution.
Nuclear has drawbacks, though. Building plants is slow and expensive. Dangerous nuclear waste must be managed and stored. And some people worry about the possibility of a nuclear accident, although the risk is extremely low.
Advocates say nuclear is far safer than fossil fuels, which warm the climate and contribute to millions of deaths each year.
So as moving to clean energy grows more urgent, Lieb says people in her state are considering …
Lieb: “Is now the time to lift the moratorium?”
Reporting credit: Sarah Kennedy / ChavoBart Digital Media
