State Rep. Graham Filler is spearheading a plan to study nuclear energy production as a greater source of reliable and affordable energy for Michigan families and businesses.

Filler, of Clinton County, said the Russian invasion of Ukraine has highlighted the need for American energy independence – and nuclear energy is favored by many experts because it generates reliable power with minimal environmental impact.

“We must be proactive in seeking out ways to ensure Michiganders have a reliable source of energy to meet their needs at a price they can afford,” Filler said. “Modern technology in the nuclear energy field allows for much smaller reactors and better safety features. There’s a lot of potential there that we should be exploring as a state.”

One of the state’s three existing nuclear plants, the Palisades in west Michigan, is set to permanently shut down next month 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.

“The goal is to shed light on the feasibility of additional nuclear energy in Michigan,” Filler said. “If the study finds that more nuclear energy is feasible here, the state should begin planning and investing in nuclear energy as an environmentally friendly and emission-free way to generate power.”

The plan will be formally introduced and referred to a committee on Thursday.

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