Issue Position: Energy Policy

Issue Position

New Mexico needs a state energy plan (the last one was done 23 years ago)--one that takes into account New Mexico's abundant natural resources, energy needs, and energy security. I have been participating in the early stages of developing such a plan, and I am sponsoring a memorial during the current legislative session to direct the Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department to conduct a study into the feasibility of siting small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) in New Mexico and to make recommendations about SMRs in the proposed energy plan. Small modulars are designed to be assembled and sited underground using factory-built components (Made in U.S.A.); they are safe by design, using natural processes such as convection, conduction, and gravity for operations and cooling; they are relatively affordable; they have a lifespan of 60 to 80 years; and they are nonpolluting, producing zero carbon emissions.

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