Energy (Nuclear)

SB 546 establishes a statewide Clean Energy Workforce Development Program under North Carolina's Department of Commerce to build a skilled workforce for nuclear energy, specifically targeting small modular reactors. It provides grants to colleges for training programs in energy sector skilled trades (like welding, grid integration, and reactor maintenance), subsidizes employer-paid apprenticeships (prioritizing economically disadvantaged students), and offers scholarships for relevant degrees - including for workers displaced by coal plant closures. The bill requires prioritizing funding for communities affected by fossil fuel plant closures, economically distressed areas, and underrepresented groups in the energy sector. It directly affects North Carolina residents seeking clean energy careers, community colleges, and nuclear industry employers through concrete training and financial support mechanisms.

Senate Bill 730 proposes to expand North Carolina's Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency Portfolio Standard (CEPS). The bill aims to include existing nuclear and large hydroelectric power facilities within the definition of what counts as clean energy. Specifically, it amends the definition of "New clean energy facility" to include nuclear energy facilities (including uprates) and fusion energy facilities placed into service on or after January 1, 2007. This change would allow electric power suppliers to use these sources to meet their state-mandated clean energy targets.