Congress Funds Nuclear Carbon-Free Energy at Historic Levels

Washington, D.C.—Congress voted to approve appropriations for fiscal year 2020 that includes $1.5 billion for nuclear energy programs, a 12.5 percent increase from the previous year. In response, Maria Korsnick, president and CEO of the Nuclear Energy Institute, said the following:

“Today’s historic 2020 funding of $1.5 billion for nuclear energy programs reaffirms that nuclear energy is an essential driver in lowering carbon emissions. With Congress’ action, our government is signaling that nuclear energy is a vital part of our country’s commitment to a reliable and resilient energy system, a cleaner environment and strengthened national security.

“Legislation for advanced reactor demonstrations, including small modular reactors and microreactors, will accelerate the pace of technology development and will keep America competitive in this strategic sector. A seven-year reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank, which also was included in the bill, will help level the playing field for American companies competing against foreign state-owned competitors around the globe.

“We appreciate the continued attention given to finding a durable solution for used fuel management, however we were disappointed that, once again, Congress did not provide funding for interim and permanent used fuel sites.”

Nuclear Energy Funding
As of December 2019
(in millions of dollars)