Gov. Reynolds appointed Iowa native Dr. Mark Nutt, director of nuclear energy programs at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, to serve as its chair.
DES MOINES, Iowa — Gov. Kim Reynolds signed an executive order this week that establishes the Iowa Nuclear Energy Task Force.
“Nuclear energy is a vital part of Iowa’s energy future, and I am committed to advancing reliable, sustainable energy solutions that strengthen our energy independence and fuel economic growth,” Reynolds said.
The task force will advise state leaders and departments “on the development and advancement of nuclear energy technologies and infrastructure in the state,” a press release says.
“With our strong foundation in manufacturing and energy innovation, we are uniquely positioned to lead the nation in developing and deploying nuclear technologies,” Reynolds said. “The creation of the Iowa Nuclear Energy Task Force marks a strategic step forward, ensuring the safe, efficient, and responsible integration of nuclear energy into our energy portfolio.”
Responsibilities listed for the task force include assessing emerging nuclear technology for use by the state’s energy sector, ensuring the state develops a skilled workforce for the growing nuclear energy sector, making sure Iowa initiatives and policies align with national regulations, cultivating a nuclear supply chain and enhancing economic growth through the use of nuclear energy.
The task force is required by the executive order to submit its final report detailing findings and recommendations to the governor within 180 days of the order’s issuance.
In establishing the task force, Reynolds appointed Iowa native Dr. Mark Nutt, director of nuclear energy programs at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, to serve as its chair.
“I’m honored to serve as chair of the Iowa Nuclear Energy Task Force,” Nutt said. “As a graduate of Iowa State University’s Nuclear Engineering program, I’m grateful for the opportunity to apply my background to help evaluate how nuclear energy can responsibly and effectively benefit Iowans. This is an exciting time to explore innovative solutions for Iowa’s energy future.”
The task force will include at least 11 members who represent utilities, power production companies, local government, academia, the Iowa Utilities Commission and the General Assembly.
Task force members include the following: