Today, the word “nuclear” often sparks fear, with talk of nuclear weapons dominating headlines. This fear is understandable but misplaced when it comes to nuclear energy—an entirely different application with enormous potential to benefit Maine.

Unfortunately, misinformation has become a major barrier to this clean, reliable, and innovative energy source. Maine is missing out on the nuclear renaissance happening across the country. Advanced nuclear technologies, such as small modular reactors (SMRs), are proving to be a game-changer. They produce no greenhouse gas emissions, require minimal land use, and deliver consistent baseline energy, unlike the intermittent output of wind and solar. States embracing this technology are reaping the rewards: lower energy costs, greater energy independence, and the creation of high-quality jobs. With lower energy costs come even more economic opportunities from sectors that are highly dependent on electricity use, like the data centers that will power the emergent Artificial Intelligence revolution.

Last session, I introduced a bill, LD 1549, to study the potential benefits of SMRs for Maine. This was a step toward exploring how nuclear energy could provide reliable, affordable power while reducing our dependence on fossil fuels. Sadly, the bill was killed by Democrats. Despite the growing evidence of nuclear energy’s promise, its safety, and its increasing support nationwide, Democratic lawmakers instead clung to old ideas about subsidized solar panels and experimental offshore wind turbines. This decision wasn’t just short-sighted; it ignored Maine’s urgent need for cost-effective, reliable energy solutions. Nearly 60 percent of Mainers struggle to afford basic necessities, and our current energy policies are only making life harder for families and businesses.

Common Nuclear Energy Myths vs. Facts

Myth: Nuclear energy is unsafe and prone to catastrophic accidents.

Fact: Modern reactors, including SMRs, use advanced safety features to prevent accidents, and they are designed to shut down automatically in emergencies. Nuclear is one of the safest energy sources when measured by fatalities per unit of electricity produced.

Myth: Nuclear waste is unmanageable and dangerous.

Fact: Spent nuclear fuel is safely stored in dry casks or wet pools at reactor sites. All of the spent fuel from the past 70 years in the U.S. could fit on a single football field, stacked 10 yards deep. Advanced reactors will further reduce waste by recycling used fuel.

Myth: Nuclear energy is too expensive.

Fact: While initial costs are high, nuclear reactors provide decades of consistent, low-cost power. SMRs reduce upfront costs with their modular design, making them more affordable for states like Maine.

Myth: Nuclear energy isn’t clean.

Fact: Nuclear produces zero emissions during operation and has a smaller lifecycle carbon footprint than wind or solar when considering construction and materials.

Myth: Nuclear energy is outdated.

Fact: SMRs represent the cutting edge of nuclear technology, offering smaller, safer, and more efficient reactors tailored to modern needs.

A Vision for Maine

Nuclear energy could — and should — be the cornerstone of Maine’s future. Around the world, nuclear reactors provide nearly 50 percent of the clean energy in countries like the U.S., and advances in technology have made them safer and more efficient than ever. Small modular reactors are particularly well-suited for rural states like Maine, where smaller-scale projects could bring power to communities without massive infrastructure overhauls.

Maine deserves better. We need to cut through the myths and embrace proven solutions that work. It’s time for leaders to focus on facts, not fear. I remain committed to pursuing innovative energy policies like SMRs because Maine’s future—and its hardworking people—deserve nothing less. It’s time we harness the power of nuclear energy to build a stronger, cleaner, and more affordable future for Maine.