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“Should Indiana turn to nuclear energy to provide energy for its growing power needs?”
Energy remains one of the key global challenges of our time. It is becoming more so as the demand for electricity grows, particularly with the growth of data-intensive AI technologies. In fact, it is forecasted that Indiana will see 1.5%-3% load growth from 2022 to 2030—a significant increase over the 0.2% annual growth rate during the prior decade.
Although nuclear energy has long been a topic of public discussion, it has arguably proven to be the most resilient and clean energy source over the past six decades—a legacy spurred by President Eisenhower’s landmark speech—”Atoms for Peace”—at the United Nations in 1953.
Currently, nuclear power serves as a baseload energy source, providing approximately 20% of U.S. electricity. That accounts for more than 50% of the nation’s carbon-free energy. With its impressive capacity factor of 92%, delivering clean and reliable energy 24/7, it is timely to explore integrating nuclear power into Indiana’s energy portfolio for a sustainable future. Moreover, recent advances in nuclear technologies such as small modular reactors or microreactors, make nuclear energy an increasingly appealing option to Hoosiers.
The SMR can be seen as the “little sibling” of conventional nuclear reactors—smaller, more nimble, and robust in both design and performance. Typically generating 300 to 500 megawatts of electricity, SMRs feature a compact size, smaller nuclear fuel inventory, and a modular design that simplifies assembly and deployment. Their flexible siting options require significantly less land and open the door to repurposing existing infrastructure, such as Indiana’s retired coal sites.
With enhanced passive safety systems that minimize the need for human intervention, SMRs are inherently safer. This combination of flexibility, safety and efficiency makes SMRs a promising option to help meet Indiana’s future energy needs.
Although Indiana currently has no nuclear power plants within its borders, a recent study led by Purdue University highlights that the state is uniquely positioned to benefit from deploying SMRs. By repurposing Indiana’s retired coal sites, SMR project costs can be reduced 7%-26%, leveraging existing infrastructure, transmission lines and ample space to significantly lower deployment expenses.
This transition also offers a valuable opportunity to retrain Indiana’s skilled coal workforce for nuclear energy jobs. As one of the nation’s top manufacturing states with emerging data centers, Indiana is poised to benefit from creating a 24/7 dispatchable, reliable, carbon-free electricity source, offering high-paying jobs during both construction and operation. Moreover, SMR deployment could boost statewide employment through a wide range of supply chain providers, including nuclear manufacturing. When carefully managed, this opportunity could position Indiana as a national and global leader in advanced nuclear energy.
While SMRs offer a compelling opportunity for Indiana’s energy future, realizing their full potential will require deliberate action, strategic planning and close coordination across all sectors of the state’s energy landscape. As first-of-a-kind projects, SMRs face considerable construction, supply chain and regulatory uncertainties. To navigate these challenges, Indiana should proactively establish strategic partnerships with federal agencies, state leadership, industry stakeholders and regulators to address financial risks, streamline approval processes and foster innovation. Public acceptance will be critical; building trust through transparent and inclusive community engagement must be a priority early on.
Furthermore, Indiana can also gain valuable insight by learning from other states, involving stakeholders early, and conducting rigorous safety and environmental assessments. With strong leadership and a collaborative approach, Indiana could not only overcome early hurdles but also position itself at the forefront of next-generation nuclear energy deployment.•
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Kim is the Purdue University Captain James F. McCarthy Jr. and Cheryl E. McCarthy
Head School of Nuclear Engineering. Send comments to [email protected].
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Nuclear’s been at 20% generation nationwide for decades – mainly because of entrenched energy industries undermining renewables and, most importantly, the build out of the distributed grid, and coal-fired retirements. Wholesale markets even required a huge nuclear bailout (paid for by ratepayers) because they couldn’t compete. And they were bailed out again when they became uneconomic with the advent of renewables. Nuclear has been and will continue to be a financial disaster. SMRs will be no different, requiring billions in taxpayer and ratepayer bailouts like the IN General Assembly’s battery of SMR subsidy legislation.