The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 216B.243, subdivision 3b, to authorize the issuance of certificates of need for the construction of certain small modular nuclear reactors. Specifically, it allows the commission to issue a certificate of need for new nuclear-powered generating plants with a maximum generation capacity of 300 megawatts. This provision is intended to facilitate the development of smaller, potentially more efficient nuclear energy sources in the state.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that any certificate of need for additional storage of spent nuclear fuel must consider the impacts of continued operations for the duration of the requested license extension. The amendment introduces new legal language while also specifying exceptions to the existing regulations regarding the construction of new nuclear power plants.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 216B.243