The Michigan House today approved a plan introduced by state Rep. Graham Filler to study nuclear energy production as a greater source of reliable and affordable energy for Michigan families and businesses.

Filler, of Clinton County, said energy independence warrants attention, especially as coal power plants are taken offline and foreign sources of energy become less dependable.

“We have coal plants in Michigan that are going to be taken offline soon. As that baseload is lost, how do we fill that in and make sure Michigan families continue to have access to reliable and affordable energy?” Filler asked. “Nuclear energy should be part of the discussion. There have been incredible technological advances in the field over the past two decades. It’s a safe way to generate reliable power with minimal environmental impact.”

One of the state’s three existing nuclear plants, the Palisades in west Michigan, is scheduled to permanently shut down after more than 50 years in operation. The plant is currently providing about 20 percent of the state’s reliable carbon-free electricity.

House Bill 6019, sponsored by Filler, calls for an independent study weighing the advantages and disadvantages of generating additional nuclear energy in Michigan. It would examine the economic and environmental impact, as well as potential new sites and safety criteria.

“It’s clear that stakeholders invested in the energy field here in Michigan are interested in what nuclear power generation looks like moving forward,” Filler said. “I believe this study will provide comprehensive information that energy providers, legislators and stakeholders could use as they make decisions regarding the future of nuclear energy in Michigan.”

The plan now advances to the Senate for further consideration.

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