The proposed 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 notify the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) 30 days in advance and the reactor is co-located with a large industrial energy user. It also permits the replacement of existing thermal electric generating units with these reactors under similar conditions and prohibits local ordinances from restricting their construction in counties with populations under 500,000.

Additionally, the bill mandates the ACC to define key terms related to small modular nuclear reactors, including "co-located with," "large industrial energy user," and "small modular nuclear reactor," with specific criteria for energy demand and reactor ratings. It modifies existing language by removing certain land use restrictions while ensuring compliance with applicable laws, and it updates the process for administrative regulations to prevent conflicts with existing statutes. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the regulatory framework for small modular nuclear reactors while maintaining safety and environmental standards.

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