Column: California should join the new nuclear rush

The state must pivot away from antiquated thinking and beliefs when it comes to the most sustainable and cleanest energy source as big business and industry embrace nuclear power

It’s time for the state of California to pivot its energy policy to include a ramp-up of nuclear energy, which includes a new power plant at San Onofre. Courtesy image

STATE — A bombshell in the world of energy was announced several weeks ago when Microsoft revealed it will restart Three Mile Island and purchase all of its energy to power the company’s new data centers.

Additionally, the Big Banks are going all-in on nuclear power, as are Big Tech and other industries, as they are ramping up preparations for their future power needs. Big Tech is prepping for the future of data centers and AI and California must follow suit.

The state has a notorious law amounting to a ban on new nuclear power plants unless the federal government can deliver a permanent disposal site. However, the State Legislature could and should rewrite the law.

Also, the legislature recently announced its intent to cancel a $400 million loan payment to help finance and extend the life of the Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant, the Associated Press reported in August. It’s a shortsighted move by the legislature and one I hope they rescind.

Nuclear is the cleanest, most reliable and one of the safest forms of energy ever produced. In the race to reduce emissions, it’s baffling the legislature refuses to acknowledge the role and importance of nuclear power.