Wyoming Lawmakers Weigh Nuclear Waste Storage Amid Microreactor Controversy

Legislative Debate Over Nuclear Waste Storage in Wyoming

Wyoming lawmakers are set to review a draft bill this week that would permit manufacturers of “advanced nuclear reactors” to store high-level radioactive waste at their facilities within the state. This measure marks the second exception to a long-standing ban on nuclear fuel waste storage in Wyoming, which could open the door for a potential new manufacturing and power production sector. Proponents argue that this development could revitalize the state’s uranium mining industry and bring economic benefits.

However, the proposed legislation has sparked significant public opposition, especially in Natrona County, where Radiant Industries plans to construct a nuclear microreactor manufacturing plant near Bar Nunn. The company claims the site is over a mile away from any homes and meets U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission distance requirements. Despite this, many residents remain concerned about the presence of spent nuclear fuel waste on-site, fearing it could pose risks to nearby homes, schools, and businesses.

Representative Bill Allemand, a Republican from Midwest, voiced strong opposition to the plan during a town hall meeting in Bar Nunn. He cited polling data suggesting that approximately 70% of his constituents oppose storing nuclear waste in the area. Allemand criticized the rush to change Wyoming law to accommodate Radiant’s plans, emphasizing the need for a more thorough discussion and education on the implications of the nuclear industry before making decisions.

The town hall was organized by Allemand to encourage public participation in the upcoming hearing by the Joint Minerals, Business and Economic Development Committee in Casper. While neither Allemand nor Rep. Kevin Campbell, another Republican, serve on the Minerals Committee, they urged residents to attend and voice their concerns. A similar bill, Senate File 186, was previously defeated during this year’s legislative session.

Not all residents in Bar Nunn are against Radiant’s proposal. Some attendees at the event expressed support for the project, highlighting the potential for job creation and economic growth. Bar Nunn Mayor Peter Boyer addressed rumors of corruption, stating he has never accepted money from Radiant and is committed to serving his community.

Town council member Dan Sabrosky shared his perspective on social media, noting that some residents felt misled during the event. He emphasized that people are becoming more informed about the nuclear industry and recognizing its safety compared to other energy sources.

Understanding Wyoming’s Nuclear Waste Ban

Wyoming has maintained a ban on storing spent nuclear fuel for decades, despite repeated attempts to allow commercial storage. Critics argue that allowing temporary storage could lead to the state becoming a de facto permanent repository. In 2022, an exception was made for “temporary” storage if the waste is associated with a nuclear power plant operating in the state.

This exception, included in House Bill 131, was intended to support TerraPower’s Natrium nuclear plant near Kemmerer. Similarly, the current draft bill appears to be tailored to accommodate Radiant Industries’ plans. The company aims to build a microreactor manufacturing plant just outside Bar Nunn, producing 1-megawatt Kaleidos microreactors designed for long-term deployment without refueling.

Radiant plans to lease these units and return them for refueling, storing the spent fuel at the Bar Nunn facility until a federal repository is available. However, critics like Rep. Campbell warn that this could set a dangerous precedent, allowing Wyoming to become a global nuclear waste storage hub.

Political Divides Over Nuclear Energy

Wyoming’s political landscape is increasingly divided over the issue of nuclear waste storage. While the state’s congressional delegation and Governor Mark Gordon support nuclear energy initiatives, some groups express concern about becoming a dumping ground for waste from other states. The Wyoming Freedom Caucus criticized efforts to secure funding for infrastructure to support Radiant’s project, calling it a subsidy.

Meanwhile, Natrona County resident Kyla Alvey launched a petition supporting Radiant and the potential jobs it could bring to the area. As the Joint Minerals, Business and Economic Development Committee prepares to discuss the draft bill, the debate over nuclear waste storage continues to intensify.