A federal proposal on nuclear energy could ramp up possibilities in the region.
Paducah, KY (WSIL) — Leaders in western Kentucky say a federal energy policy could help shape the future of nuclear power in our region and possibly the nation. McCracken County officials tell us the proposal could speed up development and support major industrial grown that’s already being discussed in the Paducah area. The proposal is now open for public comment, and local leaders say, the public needs to pay attention.
The city of Paducah is welcoming public comments over a nuclear energy proposal.
It’s a proposal from the U.S. Department of Energy that could streamline environmental review for certain advanced nuclear reactors and allow projects to move forward more quickly, if they’re determined to have no significant environmental impact. Officials tell us that the public comments will help guide transparency, education, and community understanding before any decisions are finalized.
“The new nuclear is extremely safe,” explained Craig Clymer, the McCracken County Judge Executive. “But they want to give people the opportunity to make their comment… some positive, some negative… and hopefully address those comments.”
The proposal comes as western Kentucky is being discussed as a potential hub for future energy development. Plans under discussion include advanced reactors, fuel production, and an artificial intelligence data center that would require enormous power and cooling capacity.
“It’s really an energy park… it’s just massive,” Clymer said of the site.
Clymer said the region’s nuclear workforce, infrastructure, and river access make it uniquely positioned for development, and he believes the long-term impact could extend far beyond western Kentucky.
Residents have until March 4th to submit comments through the Department of Energy’s public portal. Officials say construction tied to related projects could begin as early as this summer.