Will Nuclear Power Come to ND? Company Selected to Answer That Question

A North Dakota legislative committee has selected Canadian company Nucleon Energy to conduct a $275,000 study on bringing nuclear power to the state. Jacob Orledge from the North Dakota Monitor first reported that the Alberta-based firm specializes in small modular reactors and will spend the next year identifying potential locations, gauging public support, and preparing for federal licensing processes. Nucleon beat eight other proposals, as they stood firm on the importance of community engagement and existing transmission infrastructure. Nuclear power faces public skepticism and regulatory challenges, and committee members acknowledged that. However, growing demand for electricity from data centers and artificial intelligence is driving renewed interest. The study aims to position North Dakota for future nuclear development as the industry is experiencing a resurgence in the U.S.