On behalf of the Nuclear Energy Institute, I would like to commend you, Mr. Chairman and the members of this subcommittee, for focusing your attention on the value of nuclear technology-related programs in the Energy Department and Nuclear Regulatory Commission budget proposals for fiscal year 2002.

The Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI) coordinates public policy for the U.S. nuclear industry.  NEI represents 270 members with a broad spectrum of interests, including every U.S. electric company that operates a nuclear power plant.  NEI’s membership also includes nuclear fuel cycle companies, suppliers, engineering and consulting firms, national research laboratories, manufacturers of radiopharmaceuticals, universities, labor unions and law firms.

Today, America’s 103 nuclear power plants are the safest, most efficient and reliable in the world.  Nuclear energy is the largest source of emission-free electricity generation in the United States, and the industry last year reached record levels for efficiency and electricity production.

The industry thanks Senator Pete Domenici for his leadership in supporting the major U.S. source of emission-free electricity.  The nuclear energy legislation introduced by Senator Domenici in March provides concrete steps to set our nation on a sound energy course for decades to come, including an appropriate robust role for nuclear energy in our nation’s electricity portfolio.