The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, 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, which is a new provision introduced in this legislation.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that any certificate of need for additional storage of spent nuclear fuel must consider the impacts of continued operations during the period for which the license extension is sought. The amendment also specifies that the construction of new nuclear-powered electric generating plants is generally prohibited, except for the small modular reactors as outlined in the new legal language.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 216B.243