SALEM, Ore.-A small modular reactor energy facility demonstration project could possibly be on the ballot in Umatilla County in the next general election.
The Oregon State Legislature is currently considering House Bill 2410, that would approve a power plant demonstration project that uses one or more small modular reactors (SMRs) in Umatilla County, if approved by voters.
Nuclear reactors have been banned in Oregon since 1980 when voters approved a moratorium that prevents the financing and construction of any nuclear facility in the state until there is a permanent place to store the spent fuel, and voters approve the siting of a new plant.
What HB 2410 would do
- Allow the Energy Facility Siting Council to issue a site certificate for a small modular reactor energy facility demonstration project in Umatilla County
- Use small modular reactors and microgrid technology to support energy resilience
- Direct the Oregon Department of Energy to prepare statutes and requirements for the facility
- Refer the act to the people of Umatilla County for approval or rejection in the next regular general election
A public hearing on HB 2410, sponsored by Rep. Bobby Levy (R-Echo), was held on Feb. 27. The House Committee on Climate, Energy and Environment is now considering the bill, with a work session scheduled for April 8.
What are Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
Smaller in size compared to conventional nuclear reactors, SMR’s have the power capacity of up to 300 Megawatts, about a third of the power produced by traditional reactors, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency.
In addition to their small size, SMR’s can be factory assembled and transported to a location where nuclear fission is used to make heat and produce energy.
Although the proposed SMR project would be in Umatilla County if approved, the Morrow County Commissioners approved a letter of support for HB 2410 at their meeting on April 2.
The letter of approval was unanimous, with Commissioners writing that, “Umatilla County is taking the lead on a potential solution that could be used in several other counties throughout Oregon and the Pacific Northwest.”
General elections are held in even numbered years, with the next scheduled for 2026.
