If enacted, this bill would update current statutes by allowing utilities to construct small modular nuclear reactors without the need for a certificate of environmental compatibility, provided they give 30 days written notice to the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) and the reactor is co-located with a large industrial energy user. This change would streamline the approval process for new reactors and also permit the replacement of existing thermal electric generating units under similar conditions. Additionally, the bill would prohibit local ordinances from restricting the construction and operation of these reactors in counties with populations under 500,000.

The bill would also require the ACC to adopt rules that define key terms such as "co-located with," "large industrial energy user," and "small modular nuclear reactor," ensuring that these definitions include criteria related to energy demand and maximum eligible nameplate ratings. Furthermore, it would make technical and conforming changes to existing laws, removing certain restrictions on local ordinances while maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local laws. Overall, the bill aims to facilitate the development of nuclear energy in Arizona while ensuring that regulatory and environmental considerations are addressed.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 40-360.03
House Engrossed Version: 11-812, 40-360.03, 40-360.07, 40-360.14, 3-111, 36-136, 13-3401, 36-2801, 27-301, 3-112, 49-141, 9-462.01, 27-446, 27-441, 27-303, 40-360.09, 40-360.06