WASHINGTON — The site of a long dormant nuclear plant in Jackson County may see life thanks to legislation introduced in Congress by U.S. Rep. Dale Strong.
The bill, co-sponsored by U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt would help ensure that power production in North Alabama is on pace with the area’s rapid population growth and also protected should a major storm hit the Tennessee Valley.
The Small Modular Reactor Demonstration Act of 2024, was introduced by Strong (R-Monrovia). The bill will specifically help to facilitate the research, development, demonstration, and commercial application of Small Modular Reactors (SMR) and micro-reactors in the U.S.
To meet the goals, the Department of Energy will be required to construct and demonstrate two near-term SMR or micro-reactor projects that can be fully deployed by 2034. At least one of these projects must be located on or adjacent to an operating or retired nuclear reactor site.
“North Alabama has seen tremendous population growth and economic expansion in the last two decades, and I am committed to ensuring we make enough power to fuel North Alabama residents and businesses,” said Strong. “Winter Storm Elliott was a wake-up call for us all.
“To avoid shortages in the future, we must be constantly investing in modern energy sources to power our economy for the next generation.”
The Bellefonte Nuclear Plant outside of Scottsboro fits the requirements of the legislation. It has been inactive since construction halted in 1988.
“Our goal is to return the Bellefonte property to productive use in order to benefit Jackson County and the North Alabama region,” said Clarissa McClain, TVA senior strategic communicator. “TVA has established an advisory team, along with local stakeholders, to review potential opportunities for the property. It is important to note that no decision has been made. The site is currently used for meetings, tours, and training exercises for TVA employees, as well as outside organizations.”
SMRs are smaller, safer, and more cost-effective than conventional nuclear reactors. They can be deployed in a variety of settings, including rural areas and on military bases. Additionally, the modular construction of SMRs allows for quicker and more economical construction and the ability to operate with minimal human intervention enhances safety.
Aderholt (R-Haleyville) said the bill would especially help rural residents, particulinarly for his district.
“Our nation’s energy policy must reflect a commitment to increasing energy production so those in North Alabama, and across the nation, will always have access to power when they need it most,” said Aderholt. “Residents of Alabama’s Fourth Congressional District should never be subjected to a lack of power or lack of economic opportunities due to electric providers not being able to produce adequate energy supplies.
“Those in rural areas of the nation, like my district, will benefit greatly from the use of SMRs.”
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