Marybeth Collins
As the United States pushes forward with its nuclear energy expansion, Wyoming is taking a significant step toward becoming a leader in advanced reactor technology. The state’s Senate File No. SF0186, now engrossed in the legislative process, establishes clear regulations for the temporary storage of
spent nuclear fuel from reactors manufactured within Wyoming. This bill aligns with the federal government’s push to expand nuclear energy capacity while ensuring compliance with strict safety and environmental standards.
What SF0186 Does
SF0186 focuses on regulating and overseeing the storage of spent nuclear fuel from advanced nuclear reactor manufacturers. The bill lays out requirements for licensing, compliance, and reporting to ensure that Wyoming-based nuclear companies operate safely and transparently.
Key provisions include:
- Storage Limited to Wyoming-Manufactured Reactors – Only fuel used in advanced reactors built and maintained in Wyoming can be stored under this law.
- Temporary Dry Cask Storage – The bill prohibits permanent disposal, requiring spent fuel to be stored safely using dry cask technology.
- Compliance with Federal Regulations – Facilities must obtain Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licenses before beginning operations and follow all federal nuclear safety standards.
- Public Safety and Reporting Requirements – Reactor manufacturers must provide regular safety updates, report any violations, and share information with the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and local emergency agencies.
Why This Matters for Wyoming
Wyoming’s economic and energy landscape is shifting, particularly as coal production declines. Nuclear energy presents an opportunity for the state to:
- Develop a new industry around advanced reactor manufacturing and fuel storage.
- Attract federal and private investment in nuclear technology.
- Create high-paying jobs in engineering, construction, and reactor operations.
- Reduce carbon emissions while maintaining Wyoming’s status as an energy leader.
This bill also complements Wyoming’s existing nuclear projects, such as the TerraPower Natrium reactor, which has received over $2 billion in federal funding.
